Administrative and Economic Woes Plague Occupied Territories

Jerusalem, [DATE] - A recent report has revealed the harsh reality of life under occupation in the territories. The civil administration, established to govern the local population, has failed to meet even the most basic needs of the people.

Administrative Shortcomings

• The administrative system is woefully inadequate and fragmented, unable to provide essential services or facilitate development efforts.
• Local courts are crippled by a lack of resources, making it difficult for residents to access justice.

Devastating Impact on Economy

Since 1967, Israel has implemented policies that have led to radical changes in the structure of the economy. These measures include:

• Annexation of Jerusalem
• “Open bridges” policy with Jordan
• Selective border openings

The result is a decline in the local economy, characterized by:

• Agriculture heavily restricted by Israeli controls on land use, crop selection, and water resources.
• Industry transformed into ancillary industries catering to Israeli needs through subcontracting arrangements.
• Closure of local banks and discriminatory lending practices by Israeli institutions, depriving the economy of its financial backbone.

Consequences of Fragmented Economy

The situation is marked by:

• Distortions in output and income
• Widening gap between domestic and national output
• High degree of openness to Israeli influence
• Lack of indigenous institutions capable of addressing these issues

Economic Performance in Free Fall

Statistics show a stark decline in economic performance:

• Domestic contribution to gross national product (GNP) declined steadily between 1978 and 1984.
• Traditional sector, which once drove economic growth, has seen its relative share plummet as the economy becomes increasingly subservient to Israel.

Residents’ Options Limited

Residents are forced to seek employment in Israel or leave the territories in search of work opportunities elsewhere. The lack of internal cohesion and domination of Palestinian imports by Israeli products have contributed to a widening trade deficit.

A Stark Reminder

The report’s findings serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of occupation on the daily lives of Palestinians living under Israeli rule. Without urgent action, the situation is likely to worsen unless measures are taken to support the development of an administrative structure capable of providing basic government services and meeting the needs of economic development efforts.