Unveiling Disparities: Investigating the Gap between Palestinian Authority Counter Segregation Policies and Local Implementation Amid Deteriorating Conditions in the West Bank

Abstract

Spatial segregation in the West Bank remains a pressing issue with profound social, economic, and political implications. This study examines the gap between the Palestinian Authority's (PA) political statements and the local implementation of strategic planning measures to counter segregation in Palestinian communities. By analyzing the Strategic Development and Investment Plans (SDIPs) from 2018-2021, this research investigates the extent to which these plans address the challenges posed by Israeli settlements and promote inclusive urban development. The findings reveal significant shortcomings, including limited coverage of settlement-related challenges, inadequate strategies to confront settlement activity, and a lack of context-specific approaches; Out of the 122 plans analyzed, only 15 (12.3%) explicitly addressed the geopolitical situation, while 67 (54.9%) acknowledged settlements as a challenge. Disturbingly, 28 plans (22.9%) neglected the significance of Area C, highlighting a substantial oversight.