Crisis Management Under Conflict: Coronavirus Pandemic in Palestine and Its Political, Social, And Economic Implicationsرسالة ماجستير

Abstract

This thesis examines the multifaceted impact of crises in a conflict-ridden area, Palestine, as well as the government procedures implemented by the State of Palestine (PA), on the region's social, political, and economic landscapes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study explores how these procedures interplay with the complex dynamics of occupation and conflict in Palestine, shedding light on the intricate relationships between economic stability, political structures, and societal transformations. The legal framework of occupation, rooted in international humanitarian law, is analyzed in depth, highlighting the responsibilities of the occupying power, Israel, in managing public health crises such as the pandemic. The research reveals the vulnerabilities exacerbated by the pandemic among the Palestinian population living under prolonged military occupation. The absence of an effective early warning system, compounded by the overarching conflict, hinders proactive crisis response. The State of Palestine capacity to manage crises, especially during conflict situations, comes into question due to significant limitations in its resources and apparatuses. The study underscores the potential of existing legal instruments, like the Civil Defense Law, to establish local emergency committees and enhance crisis readiness. It emphasizes the necessity for both the occupying power and the international community to adhere to their obligations under international law, specifically in ensuring public health, equitable access to resources, and cooperation in pandemic response. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic magnified the challenges faced by Palestine, urging a reconsideration of crisis management strategies and cross-border collaborations. As the region continues to navigate complex socio-political contexts, the insights drawn from this research offer valuable perspectives on the intersections of governance, conflict, and public health crises in occupied territories.