The Stagnation of Reconstruction in Gaza: Donor Delay over Subjective and Objective Concerns

This study sheds light on the role of donors in the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip since Hamas came to power in Gaza in 2006, and until the present day. It discusses constraints that obstruct an effective role for donors in the reconstruction of the Strip, in a process that continues in an endless loop and without contact between Hamas and Western countries, as well as a context of political division between Fatah and Hamas. It concludes that the main features of donor policy in the reconstruction of Gaza have been and remain: to not directly confront the occupation; to maintain the blockade; to ensure that the de-facto government in the Gaza Strip does not receive donor funds and is not involved in planning and implementation; and to support the Palestinian Authority. Such donor policies, it concludes, are effectively indolent in their reluctance to espouse creative innovation to overcome the obstacles presented by the uniquely challenging circumstances of Gaza.

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This study sheds light on the role of donors in the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip since Hamas came to power in Gaza in 2006, and until the present day. It discusses constraints that obstruct an effective role for donors in the reconstruction of the Strip, in a process that continues in an endless loop and without contact between Hamas and Western countries, as well as a context of political division between Fatah and Hamas. It concludes that the main features of donor policy in the reconstruction of Gaza have been and remain: to not directly confront the occupation; to maintain the blockade; to ensure that the de-facto government in the Gaza Strip does not receive donor funds and is not involved in planning and implementation; and to support the Palestinian Authority. Such donor policies, it concludes, are effectively indolent in their reluctance to espouse creative innovation to overcome the obstacles presented by the uniquely challenging circumstances of Gaza.

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