Despite the active and unique role played by Palestinian women across Palestinian society, particularly at the grassroots level, they are marginalised and under-represented in both politics and public life.
Premised upon inclusive dialogue as an essential basis for identifying a clear and united Palestinian vision, Forward Thinking brought together 13 influential women from across the Palestinian Territories for a workshop on ‘Palestinian Women in Society, Politics and Peacebuilding’ in Maynooth, Ireland, from 28th-30th September 2017. The diverse group represented a range of sectors and backgrounds, including politics, academia, civil society and media. The workshop was unique in bringing together participants from across Gaza, Jerusalem and the West Bank in a women-only space, with the agenda set by participants themselves. This working paper outlines – as identified by participants – the challenges facing Palestinian women and Palestine more broadly, the mechanisms that could contribute to tangible progress, and immediate next steps.
