RAMLLAH — The United States has launched a project to promote the
rule of law in the Palestinian Authority.
Officials said the $8 million program would improve the efficiency of
the Palestinian judicial and law enforcement system. They said the U.S.
Agency for International Development would provide equipment and expertise
to the PA court system.
On Dec. 5, AID launched its program in a ceremony in the West Bank city
of Ramallah, Middle East Newsline reported. Officials said Justice and Enforcement program NETHAM has been
designated to assist the PA Justice Ministry and legal institutions.
The U.S.-financed effort began amid a breakdown in the Palestinian law
enforcement and judicial system. Palestinian attorneys and judges have
repeatedly walked off their jobs to protest intimidation by members of the
ruling Fatah Party. The judges have reported threats by Fatah gunmen and a
refusal of PA police to enforce judgements.
Officials said the United States would not enforce Palestinian law.
Instead, the AID program would seek to improve PA coordination, policy
planning, and strategic development.
AID also plans to provide the PA justice system with modern information
technology equipment and capabilities. Officials did not elaborate.
"The program will also enhance skills of court administrators to improve
their efficiency and professional commitment," an AID statement said.
NETHAM also plans to help the PA enforce laws and court decisions.
Officials said the program would provide technical assistance, training, and
mentor law enforcement officials.
Over the last year, the United States has sought to improve the PA
police, with about 60,000 officers on the payroll. Officials has
acknowledged little progress in the effort to streamline the PA force and
introduce discipline and reform.
The United States has been the largest donor to the PA. Officials said
Palestinians have received more than $1.7 billion in U.S. economic
assistance since 1993.
Norway has also been assisting Palestinian law enforcement. On
Wednesday, Norway signed an agreement estimated at $750,000 to assist PA
police as part of a European Union initiative.
