{"id":193602,"date":"1996-03-31T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2019-03-12T16:38:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/?p=193602"},"modified":"2019-03-12T16:38:42","modified_gmt":"2019-03-12T16:38:42","slug":"auto-insert-193602","status":"publish","type":"document","link":"https:\/\/www.un.org\/unispal\/document\/auto-insert-193602\/","title":{"rendered":"DPR Monthly Bulletin – Vol. XIX, No. 2 – CEIRPP, DPR bulletin (March 1996) – DPR publication"},"content":{"rendered":"
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March 1996<\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n
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Volume XIX, Bulletin No. 2*<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

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        <\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

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Contents<\/i><\/p><\/div>\n

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Page<\/i><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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I.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Human Rights Commission takes up items relating to the question of Palestine<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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II.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Commission on the Status of Women reviews report, adopts resolutions on Palestinian women<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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3<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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III.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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UNRWA Commissioner-General voices concern over closure of West Bank and Gaza<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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6<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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IV.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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UNDP Executive Board reviews Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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8<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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V.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Security Council, Secretary-General, others issue statements condemning acts of violence in Jerusalem,<\/p>\n

Ashkelon and Tel Aviv and appealing for peace<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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8<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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VI.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Statement by Co-Chairmen of Summit of Peacemakers at Sharm El-Sheikh<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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VII.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Non-governmental organizations: activities and information<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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11<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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This bulletin, and back issues,<\/i><\/p><\/div>\n

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can be found in the Lotus Notes-based<\/i><\/p><\/div>\n

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Â鶹APP Information System<\/i><\/p><\/div>\n

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on the Question of Palestine (UNISPAL) at:<\/i><\/p><\/div>\n

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http:\/\/domino.un.org\/unispal.nsf<\/i><\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n

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_________<\/p><\/div>\n

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*<\/span>Reissued for technical reasons.<\/i><\/span>\t<\/span><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

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I.  \t<\/span>HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION TAKES UP ITEMS RELATING TO THE QUESTION OF PALESTINE<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>The Commission on Human Rights began its fifty-second session at Geneva on 18 March 1996.  The Commission considered issues relating to the question of Palestine under items 4 and 7 of its agenda, entitled "Question of the violation of human rights in the occupied Arab territories, including Palestine" and "The right of peoples to self-determination and its application to peoples under colonial or alien domination or foreign occupation".<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Under item 4, the Commission had before it a report of the Secretary-General outlining activities undertaken by the Department of Public Information (E\/CN.4\/1996\/19) and heard a report by the Special Rapporteur, Mr. Hannu Halinen, pursuant to its resolution 1993\/2 A of 19 February 1993.  The Rapporteur, who visited Gaza briefly at the beginning of March 1996, submitted the following conclusions and recommendations in his report (E\/CN.4\/1996\/18, paras. 31-43):<\/p><\/div>\n

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31.\t<\/span>The continuation of the peace process is the best guarantee that human rights in the area covered by the Special Rapporteur's mandate will be respected.  The Special Rapporteur is of the opinion that he can contribute constructively to the peace process and the establishment of democracy in the areas covered by his mandate by facilitating concrete steps aimed at improving the situation of human rights.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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32.\t<\/span>A new situation has been engendered by the peace process, where Israelis and Palestinians move from confrontation to reconciliation.  Only dialogue can ensure true and lasting peace in the region, for which the cooperation of both parties is essential.  Democracy, peaceful relations and respect for human rights and humanitarian law are conducive to the exploitation of the Middle East's development potential that can result in prosperity for all the peoples of the region.  Economic development is also essential for political stability and peace. <\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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33.\t<\/span>The Special Rapporteur strongly condemns acts of violence aimed at derailing the peace process.  The perpetrators of such acts should be condemned by the international community as a whole in no uncertain terms.  No one has the right to condone the arbitrary killing of innocent victims, and the Special Rapporteur expresses sympathy with their families.  While measures preventing such criminal acts are necessary, so are measures preventing violations of human rights.  In addressing their security concerns, Israel and the Palestinian  Authority  should bear in mind the human rights consequences of their security policy: the measures undertaken have to be compatible with respect for human rights.  The halting of terrorism cannot be carried out at the expense of human rights.  The terrorist attacks and the measures taken to counter them are no doubt setbacks in this context.  Reconciliation is, regrettably, not yet irreversible.  A way out of the vicious circle of violence and repression has to be found.  Upholding law and order should not in any way replace strict adherence to the rule of law. <\/p><\/div>\n

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34.\t<\/span>Israel should reconsider its policy of full-scale closure and other indiscriminate measures amounting to collective punishment imposed on the occupied territories.  When applying measures that restrict the enjoyment of human rights, the principles of necessity and proportionality should be taken into consideration. <\/p><\/div>\n

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35.\t<\/span>The confidence-building measures described in article XVI of the Interim Agreement, involving the release of Palestinian detainees and prisoners, including women, should be implemented without delay.<\/p><\/div>\n

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36.\t<\/span>The use of torture, whether by Israelis or Palestinians, should be absolutely prohibited.  Allegations of torture should be investigated by independent judicial organs and those responsible prosecuted.  As recommended by the Â鶹APP Committee against Torture, an immediate end should be put to current interrogation practices and all victims of such practices should be granted access to appropriate rehabilitation and compensation measures.  It recommended that interrogation procedures be published in full so that they are both transparent and seen to be consistent with the standards of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.<\/p><\/div>\n

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37.\t<\/span>All persons placed in administrative detention by the Government of Israel should be brought to a fair trial or released.  Trials should be held in conformity with international standards for fairness, with due process safeguards.<\/p><\/div>\n

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38.\t<\/span>The confiscation of Palestinian-owned land and the construction or expansion of settlements should be halted immediately.<\/p><\/div>\n

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39.\t<\/span>Human rights violations perpetrated in areas under the control of the Palestinian Authority have not been denied by its representatives and have been referred to in discussions.  The protection and promotion of human rights is a general responsibility.  It is essential that the Special Rapporteur be able to study and report about the situation of human rights in a comprehensive, forward-looking and action-oriented way.  The situation on the ground, particularly vis-à-vis the peace process, has to be reflected appropriately in the mandate of the Special Rapporteur.  The Special Rapporteur expresses satisfaction that this fact has been understood by the Palestinian Authority, which has promised him full cooperation in reviewing the mandate accordingly.  The Special Rapporteur cannot be effective in his work without the full cooperation of the Government of Israel.  The responsibility of improving the human rights situation in the West Bank and Gaza Strip lies with both Israel and the Palestinian Authority, which should apply all the principles of human rights and humanitarian law.  Israel, as the occupying Power, continues to have special obligations under the Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War, of 12 August 1949.<\/p><\/div>\n

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40.\t<\/span>The Special Rapporteur invites the Commission on Human Rights to consider amending his mandate in accordance with the foregoing.<\/p><\/div>\n

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41.\t<\/span>In view of the complexity of applicable laws in areas under the Palestinian Authority, it would be important that the international legal standards enshrined in international human rights instruments be incorporated into domestic legislation by the newly elected Palestinian Council.<\/p><\/div>\n

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42.\t<\/span>The complex situation in the Middle East highlights the need for the establishment of a new human rights culture.  Human rights are an integral part of democracy and development as well as of peace and security.  Broadening the awareness and understanding of human rights is a major task, particularly in times of high tension and deep suspicion.  There is no alternative, however.  Without respect for human rights, there can be no lasting peace, no sustainable development or democracy.  The Centre for Human Rights and the Special Rapporteur are prepared to make their contribution, together with other organizations and partners.  Donor countries and agencies have responded commendably in supporting the peace process.  This process is now challenged in an unprecedented way and it is in need of all the support it can obtain.  The Â鶹APP Special Coordinator in the Occupied Territories and his Office are doing admirable work in mobilizing and organizing international support for Palestinians.  The Centre for Human Rights should accelerate the implementation of programmes of advisory services and technical assistance to complement the work of the Special Coordinator.<\/p><\/div>\n

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43.\t<\/span>Exceptional circumstances require new approaches.  Instead of repeating accusations over and over again, an attempt should be made to create a concrete, action-oriented human rights strategy for the Palestinian territories.  This would require the support of all partners and in particular the full participation of both Israel and the Palestinian Authority.  The fact needs to be stated that there are violations of human rights by both sides.  It appears indispensable that the role of the Special Rapporteur be reviewed so as to enable him to make a more action-oriented contribution to the protection and promotion of human rights in the area.  This would entail addressing human rights problems in a comprehensive and integrated manner with a view to finding the most effective ways and means to prevent their escalation and to advance overall respect for human rights.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>In his concluding statement under item 4, on 21 March 1996, the Special Rapporteur referred to the preparation by the Centre for Human Rights of a US$1.6 million, two-year programme of technical cooperation in the occupied territories, composed of a variety of activities directed to assisting the Palestinian Authority and Palestinian civil society in strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights under the rule of law. <\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>Under item 4, the Commission on Human Rights also had before the reports of the Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian People and Other Arabs of the Occupied Territories, as well as a report by the League of Arab States (E\/CN.4\/1996\/108) and documentation submitted by non-governmental organizations.<\/p><\/div>\n

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II.\t<\/span>COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN REVIEWS REPORT,<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

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ADOPTS RESOLUTIONS ON PALESTINIAN WOMEN<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>At its fortieth session, held in New York from 11 to 22 March 1996, the Commission on the Status of Women considered the report of the Secretary-General (E\/CN.6\/1996\/8) on the situation of and assistance to Palestinian women submitted, pursuant to Economic and Social Council resolution 1995\/30.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>The focus of the report, as a result of political developments, has shifted from that of previous reports: instead of monitoring the general living conditions of Palestinian women under Israeli occupation, the report focuses on the monitoring of violations of human rights that might persist as a result of the occupation and the consideration of women's participation and role in the establishment of a new political, economic and social regime; moreover, the report emphasizes aspects of development, accountability and respect for the human rights of women within a specific political framework.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>On 22 March 1996, the Commission on the Status of Women adopted, by 27 votes to 2, with 11 abstentions, resolution 40\/2, entitled “Integration of women in the Middle East peace process, which reads: <\/p><\/div>\n

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 \t<\/span>The Commission on the Status of Women<\/u>,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Recalling<\/u> General Assembly resolution 50\/21 of 12 December 1995, Economic and Social Council resolution 1995\/52 of 28 July 1995 and Commission on the Status of Women resolution 39\/3 of 31 March 1995,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Recalling also<\/u> the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action adopted by the Fourth World Conference on Women, 1<\/u>\/<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Stressing<\/u> that the achievement of a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the Middle East conflict will constitute a significant contribution to strengthening international peace and security,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Recalling<\/u> the convening of the Peace Conference on the Middle East at Madrid on 30 October 1991, on the basis of Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) of 22 November 1967 and 338 (1973) of 22 October 1973, and the subsequent bilateral negotiations, as well as the meetings of the multilateral working groups, and noting with satisfaction the broad international support for the peace process,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Noting<\/u> the continuing positive participation of the Â鶹APP as a full extraregional participant in the work of the multilateral working groups,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Bearing in mind<\/u> the Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements, 2<\/u>\/ and subsequent arrangements made in the context of the Middle East peace process,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Taking into account<\/u> section E of chapter IV of the Beijing Platform for Action concerning women and armed conflict,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>1.\t\t<\/span>Welcomes<\/u> the peace process started at Madrid, and supports the subsequent bilateral negotiations;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>2.\t<\/span>\t<\/span>Stresses<\/u> the importance of, and need for, achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, expresses its full support for the achievements of the peace process thus far and urges all parties to implement the agreements reached;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>3.\t\t<\/span>Urges<\/u> Governments, intergovernmental bodies and non-governmental organizations to include women in the peace process;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>4.\t\t<\/span>Also urges<\/u> Governments, intergovernmental bodies and non-governmental organizations to support the implementation of the Declaration of Principles and to assist the Palestinian people to ensure Palestinian women's political development and participation;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>5.\t\t<\/span>Welcomes<\/u> the results of the Conference to Support Middle East Peace, convened in Washington on 1 October 1993, including the establishment of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee, the subsequent work of the World Bank Consultative Group, welcomes also the appointment by the Secretary-General of the "Â鶹APP Special Coordinator in the Occupied Territories", and urges Member States to expedite economic, financial and technical assistance to the Palestinian people, particularly Palestinian women and children, during the interim period;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>6.\t\t<\/span>Supports<\/u> the Declaration of the Summit of the Peacemakers, held in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, on 13 March 1996, which had as its objectives enhancing the peace process, promoting security and combating terrorism, and condemns terrorist attacks in the Middle East, which seek to undermine the peace process and which have caused loss of life and injuries among women and their families;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>7.\t\t<\/span>Calls upon<\/u> all Member States to extend economic, financial and technical assistance to parties in the region and to render support for the peace process, especially with regard to women;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>8.\t\t<\/span>Urges<\/u> Member States to ensure that all economic, financial and technical assistance to parties in the region takes into account the role of women as full participants and beneficiaries;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>9.\t\t<\/span>Considers<\/u> that an active Â鶹APP role in the Middle East peace process and in assisting in the implementation of the Declaration of Principles can make a positive contribution with regard to the status of women.<\/p><\/div>\n

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Notes<\/u><\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>1<\/u>\/\t<\/span>Report of the Fourth World Conference on Women, Beijing, 4-15 September 1995<\/u> (A\/CONF.177\/20 and Add.1), chap. I, resolution 1, annexes I and II.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>2<\/u>\/\t<\/span>A\/48\/486-S\/26560, annex.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>On the same day, the Commission on the Status of Women adopted, by 36 votes to 1, with 7 abstentions, a draft resolution entitled “Palestinian women”, which it recommended to the Economic and Social Council for adoption, and which reads:<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\t\t\t\tThe Economic and Social Council<\/u>,\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Having considered with appreciation<\/u> the report of the Secretary-General on the situation of and assistance to Palestinian women, 1<\/u>\/<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Recalling<\/u> the Nairobi Forward-looking Strategies for the Advancement of Women, 2<\/u>\/ in particular paragraph 260 concerning Palestinian women and children, and the Beijing Platform for Action adopted by the Fourth World Conference on Women, 3<\/u>\/<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Recalling also<\/u> its resolution 1995\/30 of 25 July 1995 and other relevant Â鶹APP resolutions,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Recalling<\/u> the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women 4<\/u>\/ as it concerns the protection of civilian populations,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Welcoming<\/u> the signing by the Palestine Liberation Organization and the Government of Israel of the Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements, 5<\/u>\/ in Washington, D.C., on 13 September 1993, as well as all subsequent agreements reached between the two parties,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Concerned<\/u> about the continuing difficult situation of Palestinian women in the occupied Palestinian territory, including Jerusalem, and about the severe consequences of continuous Israeli illegal settlements activities, as well as the harsh economic conditions and other consequences for the situation of women and their families, resulting from the frequent closure and isolation of the occupied territory,<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>1.\t<\/span>Recognizes<\/u> the gradual, positive changes that are taking place as a result of the implementation of the agreements between the two parties;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>2.\t<\/span>Reaffirms<\/u> that the Israeli occupation continues to constitute a major obstacle to the advancement and self-reliance of Palestinian women and their integration in the development planning of their society;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>3.\t<\/span>Demands<\/u> that Israel, the occupying Power, comply fully with the provisions and principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 6<\/u>\/ the Hague Conventions 7<\/u>\/ and the Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War, of 12 August 1949, 8<\/u>\/ in order to protect the rights of Palestinian women and their families;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>4.\t<\/span>Calls upon<\/u> Israel to facilitate the return of all refugee and displaced Palestinian women and children to their homes and properties in the occupied Palestinian territory, in compliance with relevant Â鶹APP resolutions;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>5.\t<\/span>Urges<\/u> Member States, financial organizations of the Â鶹APP system, non-governmental organizations and other relevant institutions to intensify their efforts to provide financial and technical assistance to Palestinian women for the creation of projects responding to their needs, especially during the transitional period;<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>6.\t<\/span>Requests<\/u> the Commission on the Status of Women to continue to monitor and take action on the implementation of the Nairobi Forward-looking Strategies for the Advancement of Women, 2<\/u>\/ in particular paragraph 260 concerning Palestinian women and children, and the Beijing Platform for Action; 3<\/u>\/<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>7.\t<\/span>Requests<\/u> the Secretary-General to continue to review the situation and to assist Palestinian women by all available means, and to submit to the Commission on the Status of Women at its forty-first session a report on progress made in the implementation of the present resolution.<\/p><\/div>\n

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Notes<\/u><\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>1<\/u>\/\t<\/span>E\/CN.6\/1996\/8.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>2<\/u>\/\t<\/span>Report of the World Conference to Review and Appraise the Achievements of the Â鶹APP Decade for Women: Equality, Development and Peace, Nairobi, 15-26 July 1985<\/u> (Â鶹APP publication, Sales No. E.85.IV.10), chap. I, sect. A.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>3<\/u>\/\t<\/span>Report of the Fourth World Conference on Women, Beijing, 4-15 September 1995<\/u> (A\/CONF. 177\/20), chap. I, resolution 1, annex II.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>4<\/u>\/\t<\/span>General Assembly resolution 48\/104.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>5<\/u>\/\t<\/span>A\/48\/486-S\/26560, annex.<\/p><\/div>\n

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 \t<\/span>6<\/u>\/\t<\/span>General Assembly resolution 217 A (III).<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>7<\/u>\/\t<\/span>Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, The Hague Conventions and Declarations of 1899 and 1907<\/u> (New York, Oxford University Press, 1915).<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>8<\/u>\/\t<\/span>Â鶹APP, Treaty Series<\/u>, vol. 75, No. 973, p. 287.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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III.  UNRWA COMMISSIONER-GENERAL VOICES CONCERN OVER CLOSURE OF WEST BANK AND GAZA<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>Following his visit to the Gaza Strip and West Bank, the Commissioner-General of the Â鶹APP Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) issued a press release on 26 March 1996:<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>At the conclusion of a five-day fact-finding visit to the Gaza Strip and West Bank, the Commissioner-General of the Â鶹APP Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Peter Hansen, today voiced serious concern over the negative impact of the closures on the socio-economic condition of the Palestine refugees in the area.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\t<\/span>“I am deeply concerned at the current and potential consequences of this closure on the health and well-being of the Palestine refugees in the territories”, the Commissioner-General said.  “Inevitably the poorest segments of the Palestinian economy are those immediately and severely affected, and it is these groups of needy Palestinians which are our priority concern.”<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>At a meeting with the press held in Jerusalem today, Mr. Hansen said that the Agency's operations had been disrupted by restrictions on the movement of staff and supplies and that construction projects – schools, health centres and refugee shelters – had been at a standstill for three weeks.  West Bank staff were still unable to reach their workplace.  Essential stocks, such as medical, food and construction supplies, were winding down.  Refugees accounted for 78 per cent of the population in Gaza, and 38 per cent in the West Bank.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>"The most serious shortage is that of buying power”, Mr. Hansen stated, pointing out that the proscription on Palestinian labourers from working in Israel meant a stoppage of daily wages.  The tight control over the quantity  and  type of supplies entering Gaza in particular meant that affected business enterprises could not operate, and the farmers faced a price collapse in agricultural produce that they were able to export. Workers in the commercial and agricultural sectors had been laid off, adding to the already high unemployment.  The inability to import building materials had caused a slump in the construction industry, leading to additional layoffs.  In the West Bank, the general decline in economic activity and the loss of jobs in Israel has led to a visible decrease in income and available cash.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>Mr. Hansen went on to say that the current closures, implemented on 25 February, had succeeded a number of previous ones.  As a result, Palestinians had had little opportunity to build savings over the recent past.  That compounded the effects of the present cash shortage, and compromised the ability of needy Palestinians to acquire their daily minimum necessities.  The poor, both refugees and non-refugees, were using up meagre savings and selling off or pawning such things as gold bracelets and wedding rings.  In addition, local entrepreneurs could no longer obtain the 30-day credit, which was a mainstay of the local formal and informal economy.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>The Commissioner-General said he had been impressed by the Palestinian community's strength and determination in weathering these crises.  For example, when Agency teachers could not get to their schools, they held informal classes within the camps and towns to which they were restricted.  Furthermore, some of the schools continued to function with the assistance of volunteers from the community.  These were mainly community elders or senior students.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>In response to an immediate concern, UNRWA made an emergency food distribution in Fawwar camp in the West Bank, which was under a tight curfew and remained sealed.  Residents of other camps, both in Gaza and the West Bank, were also demanding jobs and food.  On 22 March, the Commissioner-General toured Jericho, while on 24 March he visited West Bank areas most affected by the closure.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>During his visit to Gaza, Mr. Hansen met with Yasser Arafat, head of the Palestinian Authority and President of the elected Council, to review the situation.  The Commissioner-General also urgently contacted donors to discuss mechanisms for a rapid job-creation programme to be implemented by UNRWA in the Gaza Strip.  In addition, Mr. Hansen is scheduled to visit Brussels on 28 March to urge the European Commission to replenish the Agency's food stocks and enable it to meet emerging needs.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>In Jerusalem, the Commissioner-General appealed in writing and in person to the Israeli authorities at the highest levels, for an easing of the closure and permission for Agency staff movement.  Mr. Hansen emphasized in his discussions with Israeli officials that the restrictions had crippled UNRWA operations, which support the peace process by providing a certain amount of social and economic stability.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>In this connection, the following information was made public by UNRWA on 28 March 1996: <\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Over the next five months, UNRWA will provide temporary work to 2,550 unemployed Palestinians, both refugees and non-refugees.  The short-term emergency employment creation project is part of the Agency's peace implementation programme.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>UNRWA says that through the programme, 1,300 to 1,500 individuals can be employed by the Agency and another 1,000 workers can be placed under municipalities and other bodies.  Participants will earn a daily wage of $12, giving them a potential $312 monthly wage.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>The short-term project is to help combat the socio-economic hardship created by the closure of Gaza from Israel.  Gaza, along with the West Bank, was closed off from Israel on 25 February following the first of four bombings which left more than 60 people dead in Jerusalem, Ashkelon and Tel Aviv. <\/p><\/div>\n

\n

Some two million Palestinians have been affected by the closures according to UNRWA.  The Government of Norway has pledged $5 million to help the Agency launch the short-term project.<\/p><\/div>\n

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IV.\t<\/span>UNDP EXECUTIVE BOARD REVIEWS PROGRAMME OF ASSISTANCE<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

\n

TO THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>The Executive Board of the Â鶹APP Development Programme (UNDP), on 29 March 1996, adopted decision 96\/19 on the programme of assistance to the Palestinian people, which was the subject of the UNDP Administrator’s report DP\/1996\/15 (see the previous issue of this bulletin).  The decision reads:<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>The Executive Board<\/u><\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

1.\t<\/span>Takes note<\/u> of the report of the Administrator (DP\/1996\/15);<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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2.\t<\/span>Requests<\/u> the Administrator to envisage increasing the core resources of the Â鶹APP Development Programme allocated to the Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People<\/p><\/div>\n

\n

under the future arrangements for the period 1997-1998;<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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3.\t<\/span>Encourages<\/u> the international donor community to continue its high level of contributions to the Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People and to take full advantage of the Programme's well-tested implementation and delivery capacities.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>The Executive Board also had before it the UNDP Administrator’s report on activities carried out by the Â鶹APP Volunteers under the Transfer of Knowledge through Expatriate Nationals (TOKTEN) programme and White Helmets pilot projects (DP\/1996\/22).<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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V.\t<\/span>SECURITY COUNCIL, SECRETARY-GENERAL, OTHERS ISSUE STATEMENTS<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

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CONDEMNING ACTS OF VIOLENCE IN JERUSALEM, ASHKELON<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

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AND TEL AVIV AND APPEALING FOR PEACE<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

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STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE SECURITY COUNCIL<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>After consultations of the Security Council held on 4 March 1996, the President of the Security Council issued the following statement to the media on behalf of the Council (S\/PRST\/1996\/10):<\/p><\/div>\n

\n

\t<\/span>The members of the Security Council condemn the terrorist attacks in Jerusalem on 3 March and in Tel Aviv on 4 March.  They extend their sympathy and deepest condolences to the Government and people of Israel and to the families of the victims.  They wish a speedy recovery of the wounded.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>These vile acts had the clear purpose of trying to undermine Middle East peace efforts through such terror.  The members of the Security Council reiterate their support for the peace process and call on the parties to consolidate it and to increase their cooperation in curbing violence and combating such terrorism.<\/p><\/div>\n

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DECLARATION OF THE PRESIDENCY ON BEHALF OF THE EUROPEAN UNION<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>Rome, 3 March 1996.  The European Union has learned with shock, consternation and profound dismay the news of the new terrorist attack perpetrated this morning in Jerusalem.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>Once more, innocent people have been mowed down by the blind and criminal violence of a cowardly attack, which the European Union condemns in the strongest terms.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

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\t<\/span>While sending its most heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and people of Israel, the European Union appeals to everybody to give no quarter to the criminal network of those terrorist groups that are trying to hinder the peace process by bloody acts that offend the conscience of mankind.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>In this regard, the European Union, while acknowledging the efforts made by the Palestinian Authority and President Arafat to combat terrorism, feels compelled once more to urge them to step up their actions, and to adopt more effective measures to put an end to these unacceptable terrorist attacks.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>At this tragic and very sad moment, the European Union wants to express its most resolute and unconditional support to the peace process and to those who are bravely working at it.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Now, more than ever, the European Union believes that there can be no alternatives to peace and dialogue and reaffirms its full support for them. (S\/1996\/164)<\/p><\/div>\n

\n

STATEMENTS BY THE SECRETARY-GENERAL<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>The following was issued on 3 March 1996 by the spokesman for the Secretary-General:<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali condemned the terrorist bombing of a bus in Jerusalem – the second in eight days – as a brutal and cowardly act.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>I am shocked and outraged by these appalling acts of terrorism against innocent civilians”, he said. “I condemn this latest attack that, like the others, is also an assault on the peace process on which we have all so painstakingly worked.”<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>“I once again call on all men and women of good will not to allow terrorism to endanger the precious gains achieved by the Israeli and Palestinian people at an already great cost.”<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>The following was issued on 4 March by the spokesman for the Secretary-General:<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali today denounced as a "heinous act of cowardice" the fourth terrorist bombing against innocent civilians in Israel in the past nine days.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>“The civilized world will not, must not, tolerate these acts of terrorism which have no goal except the undermining of the Middle East peace process”, the Secretary-General  said.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>“I strongly condemn this latest heinous act of cowardice.”<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>"The senseless carnage must end.  I appeal to all those who advocate violence to come to their senses.  For the third time in nine days, I will send my condolences to the Government of Israel and my heart is filled with sadness for the bereaved families”, he said.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Statements in this regard were also issued by the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, the International Labour Office and the Â鶹APP Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

VI.\t<\/span>STATEMENT BY CO-CHAIRMEN OF SUMMIT OF PEACEMAKERS AT SHARM EL-SHEIKH<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

\n

\t<\/span>The Co-Chairmen of the Summit of Peacemakers, convened jointly by Egypt and the United States on 13 March 1996, issued the following concluding statement (A\/51\/91-S\/1996\/238):<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>The Summit of Peacemakers has just concluded.  This meeting took place at a time when the peace process is confronting serious threats.  The Summit had three fundamental objectives:  to enhance the peace process, to promote security and to combat terror.  Accordingly, the participants here today:<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Express their full support for the Middle East peace process and their determination that this process continue in order to accomplish a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the region;<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Affirm their determination to promote security and stability and to prevent the enemies of peace from achieving their ultimate objective of destroying the real opportunity for peace in the Middle East.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Re-emphasize their strong condemnation of all acts of terror in all its abhorrent forms, whatever its motivation, and whoever its perpetrator, including recent terrorist attacks in Israel, consider them alien to the moral and spiritual values shared by all the peoples of the region and reaffirm their intention to stand staunchly against all such acts, and to urge all Governments to join them in this condemnation and opposition.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>To that end, we decided:<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>(a)\t<\/span>To support the Israeli-Palestinian agreements, the continuation of the negotiating process and to politically and economically reinforce it, to enhance the security situation for both, with special attention to the current and pressing economic needs of the Palestinians.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>(b) \t<\/span>To support continuation of the negotiating process in order to achieve a comprehensive settlement.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>(c)\t<\/span>To work together to promote security and stability in the region by developing effective and practical means of cooperation and further assistance.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>(d) \t<\/span>To promote coordination of efforts to stop acts of terror on bilateral, regional and international levels; ensuring that instigators of such acts are brought to justice; supporting efforts by all parties to prevent their territories from being used for terrorist purposes; and preventing terrorist organizations from engaging in recruitment, supplying arms, or fundraising.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>(e)\t<\/span>To exert maximum efforts to identify and determine the sources of financing for these groups and to cooperate in cutting them off, and by providing training, equipment and other forms of support to those taking steps against groups using violence and terror to undermine peace, security or stability.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>(f)\t<\/span>To form a working group, open to all Summit participants, to prepare recommendations on how best to implement the decisions contained in this statement, through ongoing work, and to report to the participants within 30 days.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>VII.\t<\/span>NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS: ACTIVITIES AND INFORMATION<\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>CCINGO, an ad hoc Committee of International NGOs Working in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, may be contacted through Fax No. (972-2) 894 260.  On 7 March 1996, it issued a press release condemning violence in the occupied Palestinian territory.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Challenge<\/u>, in its January-February 1996 edition (No. 35), contains articles on elections under occupation and paving the way to the final status and an exclusive report on foreign Arab workers in Israel.  The March-April 1996 edition (No. 36), contains articles on when the peace leads to violence, the Jerusalem scenario, full prisons, empty ballots and a special report on Arab workers pushed out of Eilat hotels.  Copies are available from P.O. Box 4119, Jaffa, 61411, Israel.<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Al-Haq<\/u>, a Palestinian human rights organization and the West Bank affiliate of the International Commission of Jurists, issued an article on 21 March 1996 in which it urged the international community to intervene effectively to prevent further illegal deportations by Israel; it is highly concerned by recent official Israeli statements announcing the Israeli Government's intention to deport Palestinians affiliated with Hamas and other political groups, as well as relatives of persons connected to the recent suicide bombings.  Copies are available from P.O. Box 1419, Ramallah, West Bank (Fax No. (972-2) 995 194).<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>The Palestinian Center for Human Rights<\/u>, in an article dated 28 March 1996, reports on the effects of one month of closure imposed on the occupied territory by Israel, such as obstruction of commercial activity; damage to the fisheries sector; high rates of unemployment; shortage in basic foodstuffs; deterioration of health conditions; and restrictions on the freedom of movement.  Copies are available from the Center (Tel\/Fax (972-7) 825 893\/ 824 776).<\/p><\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

\t<\/span>Pax Christi International<\/u>, Centre Europe-Tiers monde<\/u> (CETIM) and Human Rights Watch<\/u> submitted documentation relevant to the question of Palestine to the Commission on Human Rights at its fifty-second session (see E\/CN.4\/1996\/NGO\/27, E\/CN.4\/1996\/NGO\/45 and E\/CN.4\/1996\/NGO\/60, available from the Centre for Human Rights at Geneva. <\/p><\/div>\n

\n

* * *<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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