NAGHAM KARAJEH

Gaza- On July 25, the Palestinian Peace Coalition (PPC) held a conference in the Gaza Strip to discuss the reasons for the low women’s political participation, their role in society and their influence on the decision-making processes.

During the conference, Dr. Samia Alghusein made a speech. Indicating that the Israeli occupation continues to disrupt the electoral process between the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, she said, “The Israeli occupation continues to prevent women from voting, obtaining seats in the Palestinian Legislative Council and participating in decision-making positions.” She also said that gender-based discrimination is another barriers faced by women to participate in politics, social sphere and decision-making positions.

Zahra Abu Shaaban, a professor of Diplomacy and International Relations, also made a speech during the conference and she said:

“The percentage of women's participation in decision-making positions has not increased, and therefore women face barriers to obtain their rights in the Palestinian political system.

Huda Naim, another participant in the conference, said, “Women make up 48% of the population in Palestine. This rate proves that women make up half the population of Palestine. Therefore, they have the right to participate in politics and decision-making positions to represent themselves.”