The 2004 PHDR is an attempt to assess the various aspects of the Palestinian condition as a first step toward an integrated approach to the development of Palestinian individuals and society and to strengthen the social fabric needed to support our national liberation and development activities. The first part of the report provides a general assessment of the general Palestinian condition. It reviews what exists, what is hoped for, and what is possible given the internal and contextual challenges. The second part analyzes the major forces influencing independence and development, such as the occupation, external factors (especially international funding), and the role of Palestinian governmental organizations and NGO's. It also provides a series of general and sector-specific recommendations for how efforts can be channeled in the most productive way possible.

The PHDR poses a set of essential questions. The answers to these questions - not only in academic terms, but also in terms of changes in attitude and behavior on the ground - can serve to move society from a state of fragmentation and disintegration to a state of empowerment that will preserve the Palestinian social fabric and consolidate its abilities and potentials to achieve humanitarian and national goals.

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• Book cover

• Executive Summary

• Chapter 1: Introduction to the Report and the Environment Constraining Development and Independence

• Chapter 2: Human Development Indicators in the West Bank and Gaza Strip

• Chapter 3: The Role of Palestinian National Authority Institutions in Society Building and Empowerment of the Palestinian People

• Chapter 4: The Role of Civil Society Organizations in Society Building and Empowerment of the Palestinian People

• Chapter 5: The Role of International Funding in Society Building and Empowerment of the Palestinian People

• Chapter 6: Conclusions and Recommendations- Toward Empowering Development 

• Appendices

Background and Research Papers