Palestinian Elections (CRS Report for Congress)
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| Release Date |
Revised Feb. 28, 2006 |
| Report Number |
RL33269 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Aaron D. Pina, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
| Older Revisions |
-
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Summary:
Fair and transparent elections are seen by experts and policymakers as a necessary step in Palestinian democratization and for the peace process. In 2002, the Palestinian Authority (PA), under increasing internal and external pressure, announced a so-called 100-Day Reform Plan for institutional reform and elections in order to rejuvenate PA leadership. The 2006 legislative elections were the final and perhaps most critical test for Palestinian democratic institutions. On the one hand, the Palestinian Legislative Council elections may improve the day-to-day lives of Palestinians, renew public confidence in the PA, and bolster the peace process. On the other hand, the clear-cut legislative victory of Hamas, which does not recognize the state of Israel and calls for an Islamized Palestinian state, may increase the possibility that Palestinians will find themselves isolated. Palestinian political reform is an important element in the U.S. policy of promoting democracy, civil society, and good governance in the Middle East. Still, a PA that is dominated by a democratically elected Hamas is uncharted diplomatic territory for the United States government and international community. It remains unclear how U.S. policy toward the Palestinians will change now that a designated terrorist organization is set to head the government. Additionally, as Israel holds its own parliamentary election this spring, any new government will face decisions whether to curb economic and diplomatic relations with the Palestinians.
