Human Rights, Self-Determination and Political Change in the Occupied Palestinian Territories

This collection offers the reader an exposition and critical analysis of the agreements between Israel and the Palestinian Liberation Organisation from the perspective of international human rights law. It examines the relevance and influnece of international law on the peace-making process, and it considers the strengths and weaknesses of the agreements and the extent to which they lay the foundation for the realization of Palestinian self-determination and the development of a democratic and civil society. It examines the status and obligations of both the State of Israel and the emerging Palestinian Authority in respect of the Occupied Territories and explores the continuing role of international actors and non-governmental organizations in promoting respect for human rights during a period of dramatic transition. Particular attention is paid to the position of Palestinian women, and the way in which international human rights standards, both in the civil and political sphere and in respect of economic, social and cultural rights, can provide clear guidance for political change.