A workshop to amend Palestine’s cybercrime legislation and to bring the law into greater alignment with constitutional principles and international human rights standards was held on 28 July, in Ramallah. Supported by EUPOL COPPS, the event was organised under the direction of a newly formed committee chaired by the Palestinian Minister of Justice. The workshop brought together around 60 participants, including representatives from government institutions, the judiciary, civil society, academia, and international organisations.

Opened by the Palestinian Minister of Justice  Sharhabeel Alzaeem and EUPOL COPPS Head of Mission, Karin Limdal, the workshop focused on reviewing the Decree-Law No. (10) of 2018 on Cybercrimes and Communications and Information Technology Crimes, which needed improvements in terms of safeguards for digital rights. Participants addressed several core issues in the current law, including the need for clearer legal definitions of cyber offenses, stronger protections for freedom of expression and digital privacy, and improved judicial oversight. Additional topics included digital evidence procedures and ensuring the law’s compatibility with international legal obligations.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Limdal emphasised the importance of striking a balance between state security and individual rights, stressing how the cybercimes law must achieve the necessary balance between security and fundamental rights. Legal and technical observations gathered during the workshop will guide the amendment process.