“Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a global issue,” EUPOL COPPS Head of Mission, Karin Limdal told representatives of Palestinian institutions on the margines of 16 Days of Activism round-table dialogue on 28 November in Ramallah.

Despite years of EUPOL COPPS work in Palestine, a legal framework for family protection from violence is still not in place. This gap remains a critical issue, which EUPOL COPPS consistently emphasises in meetings with the Palestinian counterparts, alongside the importance of increasing women’s participation.

The event provided invaluable insights and an overview of the challenges in the field. The Family and Juvenile Protection Department of the Palestinian Civil Police (PCP) highlighted the challenges with movement restrictions, staffing shortages and the absence of a comprehensive legal framework. The Ministry of Social Development echoed similar concerns, noting that women would be more willing to seek justice if adequate legal and social protection were in place. However, social stigma and fear remain as major obstacles, as emphasised by the Female Lawyers Network.

Judges from Sharia and Ecclesiastical courts added that legal pluralism complicates matters, as the Palestinian Authority lacks sovereignty in all areas. Challenges in the National Referral System, such as transferring GBV survivors, the high cost of legal fees compounded by limited free legal aid, further hinder access to justice.

Women’s Centre for Legal Aid and Counselling (WCLAC) emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration between Civil Society Organisations and the PCP to effectively address gaps in protecting women.