As is well-known, the
political environment in the occupied
Palestinian Territories continues to
deteriorate. Socio-economic indicators
reflected dramatic declines since the Oslo
period began, indicators which went into a
downward spiral after the beginning of the
Intifada. Closures, blockades and curfews,
coupled with ongoing and extensive Israeli
military actions, have devastated the
Palestinian community in nearly every way
possible. A record number of administrative
detainees currently languish in Israeli
prisons and internment camps, an
unprecedented number of homes have been
demolished or are scheduled for demolition,
and land continues to be confiscated or
destroyed at a rate unheard of since the
beginning of the occupation.
At this period, a record number of victims and families
have an urgent need for legal aid. An additional complicating factor is the
devastated Palestinian economy. Previously middle class families can no
longer afford basic foodstuffs, much less legal aid for family members in
prison, or to protect their homes and lands from Israeli aggressions.
Families simply cannot pay any additional expenses any longer, making the
provision of free legal aid one of the core needs of the Palestinian
community at this time.
There are not many free legal-aid providers in the West
Bank, a need exists like never before to continue to provide services to the
community. It remains an imperative concern to continue to provide aid to
those in need.
