Europe's Role in Palestine: From Donor to Political Partner
Omar Shaban argues that the European Union, the largest provider of assistance to the Palestinians, should match its money with a political role: an active part in the peace process, support for Palestinian reconciliation and elections, help in lifting the Gaza blockade, and aid linked to democratic good governance.
Omar Shaban on Europe's role in Palestine: a proactive EU in the peace process, aid tied to good governance, and support for unity and Gaza.
Between 2014 and 2020 the EU allocated €2.2 billion in bilateral assistance to the Palestinians, and European development partners have disbursed around US$1 billion a year since 2008 (European Parliament, 2023). Yet, Shaban observes, the Palestinians themselves have not insisted on an active European presence in a peace process monopolised by the United States. He sees Germany — the EU's largest economy, with close relations with Israel and a positive image in the region — as well placed to lead a European initiative.
The EU pays more but gets less influence than the United States — “an equation in which they pay more, but get less influence.” Shaban urges Europe to be proactive rather than reluctant and incident-centred, and to bring its financial and technical support into line with its political agenda.
Recommendations
Make EU policy proactive and coherent, aligning financial and technical support with its political agenda and coordinating with — but not deferring to — the United States.
Make clear the link between EU financial support to the Palestinian Authority and progress in democratic good governance.
Palestinians should push to reintroduce the EU and other international powers into the peace process.
Help the factions implement reconciliation agreements, including elections, and encourage the PA to promulgate the law regulating political parties.
Intervene in Gaza at the humanitarian and developmental levels: lift the blockade, support solar energy, the private sector and civil society, and back the seaport, gas exploration and exports.
Let Germany lead a European initiative and share its reunification experience to bridge Gaza and the West Bank in areas without political sensitivity.
Strengthen harmonised cooperation between the US, the EU and key Arab states toward a peace conference, a plan for PA reform, elections and Palestinian reunification.
Expected outcomes
Educational programmes and economic empowerment that “will ensure prosperity in the long run.”
A determined and swift international intervention that prevents the collapse of Gaza.