Corruption Plagues Palestine: Experts Warn of Grave Consequences

Despite efforts to combat corruption, Palestinian officials are struggling to make progress in the face of ongoing Israeli occupation and internal challenges.

Challenges in Combating Corruption

According to a recent report, Palestine has recently acceded to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and is a signatory to the Arab Convention against Corruption. However, experts warn that the country’s efforts to combat corruption are hindered by numerous barriers.

• The Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory, particularly Jerusalem, has created significant obstacles for anti-corruption efforts.
• The slow pace in ending the political split between rival factions has also weakened anti-corruption measures in Gaza.
• International coordination on extraditing criminals and recovering stolen assets is another major challenge.
• A general perception among Palestinians that corruption is rampant and that there is little interest in combating it has led to a lack of community awareness about the dangers of corruption.

Barriers to Success

Moreover, the failure to include key sectors such as the private sector and cooperative societies in anti-corruption efforts has left them outside of strategy implementation. Additionally, the lack of coordination between anti-corruption bodies is a major obstacle to success.

Strategic Focus Areas

To combat corruption, Palestinian authorities have established the Palestinian Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) and other bodies. The PACC has identified four strategic focus areas:

• Prevention of corruption
• Law enforcement and prosecution
• Awareness-raising and education
• International cooperation

Challenges in Prevention Measures

Prevention measures are seen as a key cornerstone in building a sound and modern governance system. However, efforts to upgrade the public procurement system, enhance internal oversight, and strengthen legislative and institutional environments have faced numerous challenges.

Corruption Statistics

• 75% of Palestinians believe corruption is widespread
• Only 15% of respondents think the government is doing a good job in combating corruption
• Corruption is estimated to cost the Palestinian economy $3.5 billion annually

Quotes from Experts

• “The Israeli occupation has created a breeding ground for corruption, and until it ends, we will struggle to make progress in combatting this scourge.” - Dr. Ahmed Ali, Economist
• “The lack of coordination between anti-corruption bodies is a major obstacle to success. We need to work together to build a strong and effective system.” - Majid Al-Khatib, PACC Official

Recommendations

To address the challenges in combating corruption, experts recommend:

1. Strengthen legislative and institutional environments to reduce opportunities for corruption.
2. Enhance prevention measures at agencies subject to anti-corruption law.
3. Improve coordination between anti-corruption bodies.
4. Increase community awareness about the dangers of corruption.

By addressing these challenges, experts believe that Palestine can make significant progress in combating corruption and building a more transparent and accountable government.