PAPP & the occupied Palestinian territory

Information on UNDP/PAPP & the occupied Palestinian territory 2005-2006 United Nations Development Programme/Programme of Assistance to the Palestini...
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Information on UNDP/PAPP & the occupied Palestinian territory 2005-2006

United Nations Development Programme/Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (UNDP/PAPP)

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Table of Acronyms ILO

International Labor Organization

UNDP

United Nations Development Programme

UNESCO

United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization

UNFPA

United Nations Population Fund

OHCHR

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

UNICEF

United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund

UNIFEM

United Nations Development Fund for Women

UNRWA

United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East

UNSCO

United Nations Office of the Special Coordinator in the Occupied Territories

UNTSO

United Nations Truce Supervision Organization

WFP

World Food Programme

WHO

World Health Organization

OCHA

Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

FAO

Food and Agriculture Organization

WSP

War Torn Societies Project

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Introduction The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched its Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (PAPP) in 1978, following the passing of a United Nations General Assembly resolution in support of the economic and social development of Palestinians. With this objective in mind, UNDP/PAPP has since implemented hundreds of projects throughout the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt), funded by a number of international donors. Initial funding was provided by UNDP and its five bilateral donors: Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands and the United States of America. Since then, UNDP/PAPP has expanded and has now received a total of US$500 million from countries around the world. In 2004, UNDP/PAPP marked 25 years of working on behalf of the Palestinian people. Since 1978, UNDP/PAPP has implemented hundreds of projects in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. From infrastructure to support to cultural development, UNDP/PAPP’s extensive work is carried out in-line with UNDP’s overarching Millennium Development Goals, set out in 2000.

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Introduction to the occupied Palestinian territory Location: The occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) – the Gaza Strip and West Bank including East Jerusalem lies on the western edge of the Asian continent and the eastern extremity of the Mediterranean Sea. The West Bank is bordered by Jordan in the east and Israel in the north, south and west. The Gaza Strip is bordered by Israel to the north and east, the Mediterranean Sea to the west, and Egypt to the south. Geographic Positioning West Bank: 32’ 00 N, 35’15 E; Gaza: 31’ 25 N, 34’ 20 E Area: Occupied Palestinian territory (oPt): 6,020 km2 West Bank: 5,655 km2; 130 km long, 40-65 km in width Gaza Strip: 365 km2; 45 km long and 5-12 km in width

Major Towns and Cities Jerusalem is a main center of commercial activity for both Israelis and Palestinians. Ramallah, Jenin and Nablus, both north of Jerusalem, are also commercial and industrial hubs with large residential populations. The headquarters of the Palestinian National Authority, including the Palestinian Legislative Council are situated in Ramallah. Bethlehem and Hebron, to Jerusalem’s south, are other major residential areas. Gaza City and its immediate environs constitute the major center of commercial and residential life in the Gaza Strip. Rafah to the far south is an important border town, which links Gaza to Egypt.

Climate The climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and short, cool, wet winters. Temperatures in Jerusalem in the summer months reach an average of 29-30ºC. Further north, in Jenin and Tulkarem, it is not uncommon for the summer average to reach 40ºC. Gaza City, although on a coastal plain, is also warm with summer temperatures reaching the 30’s. Winter temperatures can vary more extensively, given the range of altitudes in the oPt. Jerusalem is located at 800m above sea level, making winters cold and wet, with occasional snow and average highs of 13ºC. In the northern West Bank, the climate is warmer throughout the day with temperatures reaching 18-19ºC. The Gaza Strip has an average winter temperature of 19-21ºC. Apart from occasional snowfall, extreme rain, strong winds, sandstorms, dust storms and high humidity are all common. Over the past years the region has been undergoing a particularly severe drought. Dust storms and 4

drought in summer may cause allergies and affect computer equipment. Dampness in winter may affect computer equipment as well as clothes, books and bedding. Demography The population of Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza is approximately 4 million, with a majority under the age of 18. Some 94% of the Palestinian population is Muslim, and 6% are Christians. Immediately after the occupation of Jerusalem in 1967, the Israeli government conducted a census that counted 66,000 Palestinians living in East Jerusalem within the revised municipal borders (44,000 in pre-1967 East Jerusalem and 22,000 in the area newly annexed by Israel). While these Palestinians were classified as permanent residents of Jerusalem (according to the Law of Entry into Israel 1952, Entry to Israel Regulations 1974), those who were not recorded due to absence – whether studying abroad, visiting relatives elsewhere, etc. – had later to apply for family reunification to the Ministry of the Interior (see Residency Rights). Ever since 1967, the Israeli government has encouraged Jews to settle in East Jerusalem and has provided numerous incentives such as favorable house purchase terms, subsidies, and exemption from municipal taxes (or reduced rates) for certain periods. As a result, the settlers in East Jerusalem comprise an estimated 75-80% of the total increase in Jerusalem's Jewish population since 1967. Population numbers vary. According to Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics data for 2001, Jerusalem’s total population was 670,000, including 444,300 Jews (66.3% of the population) and 225,400 (33.58%) non-Jews, of which Palestinian Muslims and Christians make up 98%. The Population Registry Bureau of the Israeli Ministry of Interior recorded a total population of 740,366, including 486,480 Jews (65.7%) and 240,721 non-Jews (34.3%) (July 2002). Both figures ignore the fact that an estimated 20,000 Palestinian live ‘illegally’ in East Jerusalem without an Israeli ID card, for example those Palestinians married to Jerusalemites who did not obtain family reunification approval (JSCER, Chronic Racial Discrimination in East Jerusalem, 2003). Palestinian figures are much higher, although it is estimated that at least a third of the Palestinian Jerusalem ID card holders reside outside the city in nearby West Bank towns. The Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) estimates that some 252,948 Palestinians lived in East Jerusalem in 2003.

Religion Islam is the religion of 97% of the Palestinian population. Close to 50,000 Palestinians in East Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza are Christians, mainly residing in East Jerusalem, Ramallah and Bethlehem. They belong to over 15 different denominations, of which the larger communities consist of the Roman Catholics and Greek Orthodox.

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Islam (97%) Palestine is a sacred land to Muslims because of its association with Abraham, the father of all prophets, as well as with the Prophet Mohammed. Jerusalem is mentioned in the Quran as a holy place in which the Prophet Mohammed experienced Al-Isra’ w-Al-Mi’raj, and was the first city, before Mecca, to which the Prophet asked his followers to turn in prayers. Today, Sunni Muslims account for 97% of the population. Many Palestinian Muslims can trace their ancestors back to the 7th century when Muslims conquered the country. Holy sites include: Al-Sakhra Mosque, the Dome of the Rock: Said to be the place where Noah’s ark rested on the Rock after the flood had subsided. It is also the location from which the Prophet Mohammed ascended to Heaven in Lailat Al-Miraj ‘Night of the Ascent’. Various mementoes of the Prophet’s Nocturnal Journey - a handprint, a footprint, the spot from which he ascended - are found on the Rock. Al-Sakhra was built in the 7th century by the Ummayad Caliph Abd Al-Malik Ibn Marwan. The golden-domed octagonal oratory is still much the same in its architectural splendor as when it was completed in 691 AD. Al-Aqsa Mosque: This mosque's name is derived from the Quranic verse of the Prophet’s Nocturnal Journey or Isra'. Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest mosque in Islam after those in Mecca and Medina. Christianity (3%) Christians are an integral part of Palestinian society. Christian-Muslim relations have traditionally been excellent as they were largely shaped by the Caliph Omar Ibn Al-Khattab who guaranteed the safety of the Christians and their holy places when he came to Jerusalem in 638AD. Christian holy sites in Jerusalem include the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Cenacle, the Church of St. Anne, the Tomb of the Virgin Mary, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Sanctuary of the Ascension, and the Mount of Olives. Judaism The Jewish Orthodox community Neturei Karta in Jerusalem consider themselves as Palestinian Jews. In 1994, the head of Neturei Karta, Rabbi Moshe Hirsh, was appointed by President Yasser Arafat to be the head of Jewish Affairs within the newly established Palestinian National Authority. The Samaritan community lives near Nablus, and speaks and prays in Hebrew and believes in the writings of the Torah. The Nabulsi Samaritans, led by Farouk Samri, consider themselves Palestinians and are fully integrated in the daily life of Palestinian society and attend Palestinian schools and universities. Following the 1996 Palestinian elections, President Yasser Arafat granted the community one of the 88 seats on the Palestinian Legislative Council.

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Language Arabic is considered the official language, however many people residing in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza also speak English. In fact, it is not uncommon for educated Palestinians to be fluent in several languages, as many have studied abroad at one time or another.

History, Politics and Administration The history of Palestine is immensely rich. The Philistines arrived from Crete and Asia Minor in 1175 B.C. to settle in the southwestern part of the Land of Canaan. They began describing the land they inhabited as “Philistine” or “Palestine.” The region witnessed the developments surrounding the foundation of the three monotheistic religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Turkish rule began in 1517 A.D. and ended in December 1917, following the end of the First World War. Thereafter, a British Mandate period began which saw rising tensions between the Jewish and Arab populations, particularly after the end of the Second World War with the massive tide of Jewish refugees arriving to Palestine. Continuing violence against the British, in addition to the huge financial burden of maintaining their presence convinced Britain of the need to withdraw. Subsequently, the “question of Palestine” was handed over to the recently formed United Nations. In November 1947, the organization supported Palestine’s partition which was vehemently rejected by Arab nations. Hours after the British mandate ended in May 1948, Israel declared its statehood and five Arab armies invaded in an attempt to reverse the new facts on the ground. The first Arab-Israeli war ended in early 1949 with massive gains by the Israeli forces, including the Galilee and the Negev Desert. Armistice agreements were signed between Israel and Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria, although no peace treaties were concluded. Israel’s Suez campaign in November 1956 also saw Israel capture territory, this time the Sinai Desert. The American President, Dwight D. Eisenhower, refused, however, to allow the area to remain in Israeli hands, and forced an Israeli withdrawal from the region in early 1957. The third Arab-Israeli war of June 1967 was a different matter, with Israel occupying the West Bank including East Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip, Sinai and the Golan Heights. A fourth Arab-Israeli war in October 1973 saw Israel retain its hold on the captured territories, although not without being driven back by the Egyptians in the first few days of the war. Since then, various peace initiatives, including the Oslo Accords, which lead to the establishment of the Palestinian National Authority in 1993, have been initiated aimed at bringing an end to conflict.

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Economic Conditions The Palestinian economy has suffered greatly, particularly since 2000 and the outbreak of the second Intifada, which has lead to the current economic crisis that exists throughout the West Bank and Gaza. According to the World Bank, the Palestinian economy remains severely depressed, with estimates indicating that the Palestinian GDP is 23% lower than it was in 1999. Unemployment in the West Bank and Gaza currently stands at over 25%, which is set to increase in the coming years. Over the past five years poverty levels have risen dramatically, with levels rising as high as 85% in some areas. This data provides further evidence of the dire state of the Palestinian economy, near collapse with only international aid stemming a possible breakdown, and that the economy can no longer automatically recover even if closures were lifted and conditions returned to pre-Intifada levels.

International Organizations and Bilateral Missions Many international organizations and bilateral missions have a presence in East Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza. United Nations’ operations in these areas are well developed, and include UNDP/PAPP, UNSCO, UNTSO, UNESCO and UNRWA. UN agencies under the UNDP administrative umbrella include UNICEF, OHCHR, UNFPA, ILO, WFP, FAO, WHO, WSP, OCHA and UNIFEM.

Transport and Communication Transport to and within East Jerusalem and the West Bank Entry to East Jerusalem is via Israel and if coming from overseas, from BenGurion International Airport, located 42 kilometers from Jerusalem on the outskirts of Tel Aviv. A bus service runs from the airport to the Central Bus Station in Jerusalem, located on Jaffa Road. Jerusalem is easy to navigate on foot and consists of East Jerusalem, including the Old City, as well as Israeli West Jerusalem. Travel to the West Bank is less easy. Although all central and most rural areas are accessible by vehicle, Israeli military checkpoints monitor the roads. People and their vehicles are checked thoroughly, often causing traffic jams and long delays. Travel to Gaza through the Erez checkpoint International Staff members All International Staff holding UNLP's and an Israeli service visa should, on their first entry to Gaza, apply 5 days in advance for Erez clearance. The details required are: Name, date of birth, nationality, place of birth, D/UNLP number, D/UNLP expiry date, Israeli service visa number, Israeli service visa expiry date.

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Prior coordination for Blue LP holders (of the vehicle and drivers/passengers) remains a requirement at least 24 hours before actual travel. National Staff Permits are required prior to National Staff crossing Erez. It will take about 7 working days and permits may be issued for up to 3 months depending on the requirement or justification. The details required are: Name, ID number, date of birth, position in the agency, where staff are going, when staff need to travel, how long are they traveling for, why they are traveling, prior coordination (vehicle, international staff driver (diplomatic visa or service visa) and national staff passenger) will be need prior to national staff movement in the same way as International Staff. 48 hours notice must be given for National Staff crossing.

Local Transport A system of reliable, shared taxis (service) operates throughout East Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The main assembly point in East Jerusalem is at the bus station near the Damascus Gate. Private taxis are readily available, but are substantially more expensive. They are however, more practical when needing to reach remote areas.

Private Vehicles UNDP international staff can purchase a duty free vehicle within six months of arrival at the duty station. Almost all car manufacturers are represented in Israel, although not all models are available. It is in the best interest of staff members to ensure that spare parts will be readily accessible for their choice of vehicle. In the West Bank and Gaza, spare parts are irregular and often only local imitation parts are available. Repair services are similarly irregular and the quality of service tends to be poor. International personnel, depending on their type of contract, can also import cars from overseas manufacturers, as long as the car conforms to the standards set by Israel’s Ministry of Transportation. The vehicle, however, cannot be more than four years old. The procedure to purchase a vehicle is managed by UNDP administration at the duty station. The entire procedure can take up to six weeks, if the car is available locally. Car rental is also possible. UNDP recommends the following: East Jerusalem: Auto Nation (02) 582 0103 Dallah Al-Baraka (02) 656 4150 Orabi (02) 585 3101

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Bethlehem: Murad (02) 274 7092 Orabi 050 537 2687 Hebron: Holy Land (02) 222 0811 Jericho: Orabi 050 405 095 Nablus: Orabi (09) 238 3383 Ramallah: Abu Laban (02) 295 4010 Good Luck (02) 234 2160 Orabi (02) 240 3521 Universal (02) 298 6080 Gaza: Imad (08) 286 4000 Palestine (08) 282 3841 Yafa (08) 282 5127

Mail Services For mail posted from Jerusalem, the international and domestic mail service of Israel is efficient and reliable. However, incoming international mail may be subject to checking by the Israeli postal authorities. In both the West Bank and Gaza, the Palestinian postal authority is operating, but services are largely dependent on the security situation.

Telephone Services In Jerusalem, the Israeli phone company, Bezeq, provides landlines connection. Most public phones accept only prepaid telephone cards. Israel has a number of mobile phone companies operating including Orange and Cellcom. Coverage is good throughout Israel, but less so in the West Bank and Gaza. PalTel operates landlines in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Jawwal is the Palestinian mobile phone service, which provides good coverage throughout the West Bank and Gaza. Jawwal does not, however, operate in most areas in East Jerusalem or Israel. Jawwal's information line is 144. Calling codes: Israel and the oPt: +972 Israel and the oPt – when calling from Arab countries: +970

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Currency, Controls, Weights and Measurements Currency In the Gaza Strip and West Bank, including East Jerusalem, the unit of currency is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS) which is divided into 100 Agorot. Notes come in denominations of 200, 100, 50 and 20. The Shekel stands at 4.6 against the U.S currency as of February 2006. Although the New Israeli Shekel is the main currency in use, US dollars and Jordanian Dinars are also accepted in some areas.

Exchange Controls and Banking Facilities Foreign currency can be brought in freely and converted at banks, hotels and money-changers. Travelers checks can be exchanged in Jerusalem and the West Bank at major hotels, although at most establishments within the West Bank, cash is still the preferred method of payment. Within the Gaza Strip, cash is obligatory. International personnel are allowed to open “foreign currency” accounts for funds received from abroad. UNDP uses the Leumi Bank on Jaffa Street in West Jerusalem. There are only a small number of functioning ATM's in East Jerusalem, which accept foreign ATM cards and credit cards. They include one located near the Christmas Hotel, on Ali Ibn Abi Talib Street. In the West Bank and Gaza Strip, however, local ATM’s do not always accept VISA.

Weights and Measurements The metric system is in general use. For measuring land areas, the dunum is used. One dunum is equal to 1/2 acre, or 1000 meters squared.

Immigration, Imports and Customs Regulations Entry and Residence Permits A service visa is obtained on behalf of International Staff by UNDP before entry into Israel. In order for the visa to be processed the agency needs to be provided with a copy of his/her passport, passport size photo, as well as a completed visa application form. Staff will also be issued with an identity card from the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs which grants access throughout Israel and the oPt.

Health Clearance Requirements At present there are no immunization requirements for travel to the Gaza Strip and West Bank, including East Jerusalem. As a precaution, however, hepatitis vaccinations are recommended.

Imports and Customs Regulations The procedures for clearing personal effects through customs are handled by UNDP administration in the duty station.

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Packing and Shipping of Goods No special packing of goods is required. UNDP duty station administration will handle all customs clearances on behalf of the staff member.

Housing Hotels The tourism industry in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, including East Jerusalem has significantly declined since the Al Aqsa Intifada began in September 2000. In spite of this, there are a number of hotels in operation. In Jerusalem, UNDP recommends: The American Colony Hotel (02) 627 9777 UN Rate: US $160 for a single, $200 for a double; both prices include breakfast. The Seven Arches Hotel (02) 626 7777 UN Rate: US $45 for a single, $55 for a double; both prices include breakfast. The Saint George Hotel (02) 627 7232 UN Rate: US $65 for a single and $100 for a double; both prices include breakfast. The Ambassador Hotel (02) 541 2222 UN Rate: US $85 for a junior room, $100 for a superior room; both prices include breakfast. The Christmas Hotel (02) 628 2588 UN Rate: US $60 for a single, $80 for a double; both prices include breakfast. Addar Suites (02) 626 3111 UN Rate: US $80 for a single, $100 for double room; both prices include breakfast. In the West Bank, UNDP recommends: Inter-Continental Hotel, Jericho (02) 231 1200 UN Rate: US $80 for a single room, $90 for a double; both prices include breakfast. Regency Hotel, Hebron (02) 225 7390 UN Rate: US $50 for a single room, $70 for a double; both prices include breakfast. Al-Qaser Hotel, Nablus (09) 238 5444 UN Rate: US $60 for a single room, $75 for a double; both prices include breakfast. 12

Grand Park Hotel and Resort, Ramallah (02) 295 9315 UN Rate: US $60 for a single room, $80 for a double; both prices include breakfast. Gemzo Suites, Ramallah (02) 240 9727 UN Rate: US $1,200 per month for a one bedroom fully furnished apartment, $1,400 for a two bedroom apartment or $1,600 for a three bedroom apartment. Prices include utility bills. In Gaza, UNDP recommends: Al Deira (08) 283 8100 UN Rate: US $69 for a single, $89 for double; both prices includes breakfast. Commodore (08) 283 4400 UN Rate: US $66 for a single, $88 for a double; both prices include breakfast. Cliff Hotel (08) 282 3450 UN Rate: US $50 for a single, $70 for a double; both prices include breakfast. Marna House (08) 282 2624 UN Rate: US $50 for a single, $60 for a double; both prices include breakfast.

Houses and Apartments Renting a house or apartment in Jerusalem can be expensive due to the limited accommodation available and the difficulties imposed on new construction. Rent in a residential suburb, such as Sheikh Jarrah, Shufat or Beit Hanina varies from US $700-$2000 per month. Word of mouth is the best method of finding a house or an apartment. Heating and air conditioning systems are highly desirable, but are normally not available everywhere. Housing in the West Bank (mostly Ramallah) is generally less expensive, and is found through the same means – word of mouth.

Furniture and Equipment Most houses or apartments are unfurnished. Household items are locally available at varying prices, although items such as beds tend to be quite expensive. Although it is difficult, one can also find furnished houses and apartments, but the quality of furniture tends to be sub-standard. It is also worthwhile looking at houses or apartments with a garage included, due to the limited number of parking places available in local streets.

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Utilities The water supply in Jerusalem and the West Bank is usually reliable, although there can be interruptions. This depends mainly on the water pressure of the house and the size of the buffer tank. Power supplies are less reliable. Electrical wiring is often sub-standard and leads to power outages. It is advisable to use a stabilizer for delicate electronic equipment such as computers. Electrical, plumbing, masonry, carpentry and painting services are all available in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. Most services are done through the landlord, which requires follow up. Israeli contractors often do not go to East Jerusalem, and never to the West Bank. In the Gaza Strip, water supplies can be tenuous. Some areas do not have access to piped water. Those that do often have their supply cut if the local municipality cannot afford to pay the water bills to the Israeli water authorities. If this is the case, private companies will often intervene and provide water tanks, although this is extremely expensive.

Medical Facilities and Requirements Common Ailments and Health Precautions Food poisoning is possible but rare in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Exercise common sense when choosing an eating establishment. Tap water in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza is drinkable. However, consumption of bottled water is still recommended. The Gaza Strip and West Bank, including East Jerusalem are relatively free of diseases of a more serious nature. Currently, UNDP has issued no warnings pertaining to health hazards or prevalent diseases. Nevertheless, standards of hygiene in the West Bank and Gaza are often poor. Cleanliness of streets and food markets and the disposal of refuse are frequently inadequate. Rodent and insect infestation is common.

Medical Facilities A high standard of medical care is available in Jerusalem. In the West Bank and Gaza Strip, however, one would be hard-pressed for find treatment at a similar level. The quality of the education of the physicians in the West Bank and Gaza varies considerably. The level of care and the quality of staff in hospitals is generally much lower than in Europe. Ambulance and emergency services are unreliable. Blood donations, however, are systematically screened for HIV, Hepatitis B and C and Syphilis. UNDP has its own staff of UN physicians: Dr. Abdallah Khoury- Jerusalem Dr. Fouad Muhareb- Jerusalem Dr. Fahed Khalaf- Ramallah Dr. Issa Tarazi- Gaza

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(02) 582 8407/8 050 544 6604 (02) 295 7118 (08) 282 7941

More serious ailments can be treated at the numerous duty hospitals in the Jerusalem area. Phone numbers for ambulances are listed below: East Jerusalem Jenin Tulkarem Nablus Qalqilia Ramallah Jericho Bethlehem Hebron Gaza

101 101/04-250 3537 101/09-267 2140 101/09-238 5077 101/09-294 0722 101/02-295 7574 101/02-295 7574 101/02-274 3225 101/02-222 8598 101/08-286 3633

In addition, complex health conditions can be treated in relatively high standard Israeli hospitals.

Food and Restaurants, and Clothing Food and Restaurants There are many outlets in East Jerusalem selling falafel, shawarma and corn on the cob. Open-air food markets are a popular way to do weekly grocery shopping and offer a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetables. Supermarket chains are more prevalent in West Jerusalem. In the West Bank and Gaza, fresh fruits, vegetables and eggs are difficult to find during times of internal closures. Consumption of meat sold in the souq is not advisable for reasons of hygiene. Supermarkets carry imported and local brands. The Gaza Strip and West Bank, including East Jerusalem, have a wide variety of eating establishments including: Al-Diwan Restaurant, located at the Ambassador Hotel, Jerusalem. Tel: (02) 541 2222. Askadinya Restaurant, Jerusalem. Tel: (02) 5324590 Blue Dolphin, Jerusalem. Tel: (02) 582 5162 Al Masyoun, Ramallah. Tel: (02) 296 5966 Darna Restaurant, Ramallah. Tel: (02) 295 0590 Zeit Ou Za’tar, Nablus. Tel: (09) 238 3164 Dolphin, Bethlehem. Tel: (02) 274 3432 Sea-Breeze Restaurant, Gaza. Tel: (08) 284 2654 Al Deira Restaurant, attached to the Al Deira Hotel in Gaza. Tel: (08) 283 8100

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Clothing There is not a wide range of clothing stores in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza. It is therefore advisable to bring a complete wardrobe. Bring plenty of warm clothing as well as garments suited to the hot, Mediterranean climate. In deference to local customs, the dress code is conservative with no bare shoulders, knees or tight clothing.

Education System The present pre-university education system in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza consists of a compulsory six-year primary stage and three-year preparatory stage, and a non-compulsory cycle of a three-year secondary stage, which allows for admission to higher education institutions. Preuniversity educational institutions are operated and administered by the Israeli authorities in East Jerusalem, and the Palestinian National Authority in the West Bank and Gaza. UNRWA and the private sector also operate within Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza. UNRWA provides the compulsory cycle and also operates vocational and teacher training institutions. Closures of the West Bank restrict access to schools in Jerusalem. Additionally, school locations in West Jerusalem occasionally fall into areas of security risks given their close proximity to crowded locations near Jaffa Road.

Schools In East Jerusalem: The Jerusalem School (02) 581 8611. The school runs on the American curriculum from kindergarten to high school (3-18 yrs old.) Registration for new students is US $250 per year. Tuition fees range from US $1,500 - $2,850, depending on the grade. Fees do not cover the cost of books. Rosary School (02) 585 4007. Runs on a Palestinian curriculum from nursery school to high school (4-18). Fees range from JD 600 - 870 per year. Freres de la Salle (02) 585 5764. Runs on the British curriculum for children ages 5 to 18 years old. Fees range from NIS 4,600 5,700 per year. The Jerusalem American International school (02) 679 9611. The school runs on the American curriculum from prekindergarten to 5th grade. Tuition fees range from US $ 4,000 $8,700.

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St. Georges School (02) 628 3427. Runs on the British curriculum from kindergarten to high school. Boys only. Tuition fees range from US $600 – $900 per year, not including books and transportation to and from the school. In West Jerusalem: The Lycee Francais (02) 538 4102. This co-educational school runs on the French curriculum, catering for children as young as three to those completing the baccalaureate. Tuition fees range from NIS 11,000 – 19,000 per year. A NIS1, 000 enrollment fee is also applicable. The Anglican School (02) 567 7200. This co-educational school operates on the International curriculum from kindergarten to high school. Tuition fees range from US $5,500 - $10,900 per year. This does not include a deposit fee or the admission fee. Special Program, capital and examination fees are also applicable.

Employment Opportunities for Spouses Paid opportunities for spousal employment are extremely limited. There are opportunities to find volunteer work, and if spouses possess the skills, it may be possible in areas such as nursing or teaching. Local institutions are sometimes reluctant to work with international spouses because of cultural differences and the language barrier. Work permits are tightly regulated by the Israeli Ministry of the Interior. It is a reality of the duty station that most international spouses want to work but cannot find jobs.

Working Hours and Office Attire UNDP/PAPP office hours in Jerusalem are from 8AM to 3:30PM, Monday through Friday with a half hour break for lunch, beginning at 12 noon. For Gaza, hours remain the same, yet the work-week runs from Sunday through Thursday. The dress code is relaxed, yet well presented. A tie is optional.

Recreation Entertainment There is no shortage of things to do in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza. Cultural events take place throughout the year, and many also opt to take the opportunity to learn Arabic. In East Jerusalem: The Palestinian National Theatre. Tel: (02) 6280957. Presents artistic, educational and entertaining programs that reflect the aspirations of the Palestinian people. The Center for Jerusalem Studies at Al Quds University Tel: 026287517, Khan Tankaz, Souk Al-Qattanin, the Old City

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Fax:6284920 [email protected], www.alquds.edu

www.jerusalem-studies.org

In Ramallah: Popular Art Center. Tel: (02) 240 3891 Al-Kasaba Theatre and Cinematheque. Tel: (02) 296 5292. Shows recent films on a nightly basis. Khalil Sakakini Cultural Center. Tel: (02) 298 7374. Conducts art exhibitions, concerts, film screenings and book and poetry reading. Ramallah Cultural Palace. Tel (02) 298 4704. Center contains state- of-the-art facilities including a 736–seat auditorium, conference rooms and several exhibition halls. In Bethlehem: The Bethlehem Peace Center. Tel: (02) 276 6677. This cultural centre sponsors different kinds of activities such as: art exhibitions, festivals, conferences, workshops, film screening, women and children activities. The International Center of Bethlehem. Tel: (02) 277 0047. In Gaza: Arts and Crafts Village. Tel: (08) 284 6405. Exhibits traditional and contemporary Palestinian Art.

Outdoor Activities There are numerous sites of historical interest to be found throughout Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza that make good walking trips for a day. Swimming pools, tennis courts and soccer fields are more likely to be found in West Jerusalem, although the YMCA and the Hyatt Regency hotel in East Jerusalem possess such facilities. There are a number of gyms and sporting facilities in East Jerusalem, as well as in the West Bank, particularly in Ramallah. High quality gyms can be found in the city, which include squash, tennis and swimming facilities.

Historic Sites Religiously and culturally significant historic sites abound in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza. Walking around the Old City, through the Muslim, Christian, Armenian and Jewish quarters is a must. See "Palestine: A Guide" for further details of where to go.

Vacation Trips Travel to other countries in the Middle East and Europe are relatively easy given the central location of the occupied Palestinian territory. Jordan, Cyprus and Egypt are three of the closest destinations for shorter breaks. Other options include trips to Tel Aviv, Tiberias, the Golan Heights, and the Galilee. Israel also has an extensive network of well maintained national parks.

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Books, Periodicals, Newspapers, CDs In Jerusalem, there are countless publications from which to choose. The Jerusalem Post and the International Herald Tribune, with an English edition of Ha’aretz included, are the two English dailies in Jerusalem. The Jerusalem Report is a weekly magazine examining the political situation of the region. The Educational Bookshop on Salahadin Street in East Jerusalem carries a wide variety of international publications, and in West Jerusalem, Steimatzky’s is a popular Israeli bookstore chain. The Bookshop at the American Colony Hotel in East Jerusalem is one of the best in the region. CD’s can be found in West Jerusalem at Tower Records. In the West Bank and Gaza, however, the selection is limited and often confined to the Arabic language. Arabic newspapers are readily available in supermarkets and include Al-Quds, Al-Hayyat and Al-Ayyam.

Photography All photographic facilities can be found in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza, although film tends to be quite expensive. UNDP recommends Garo Photography on Salahadin Street in East Jerusalem.

Security Currently, the Gaza Strip is under phase four security. This means that movement into and around the area is restricted. The West Bank is under phase three security and Jerusalem is under phase one. Staff traveling to Ramallah, Jericho and Bethlehem only need telephone clearance and not written security clearances. Before travel, staff members must call the JSCO at 02 5890 777/ 776 and state name, agency, destination, duration of stay and phone contact number (VHF radio is now operational and agencies are to start installing and using radios). Jerusalem UNDSS Security Contacts: FSCO I/WB/G: Mobile 0577-204 252; MIRS 201; Office 0548-173985; Home: 02-6274849 FSCO West Bank: Mobile 0548-173984 FSCA: Cell 0577-269 565; MIRS 238; office: 02-5890760 JSCO RADIO ROOM: Duty Officer: 02-589 0777; 02-589 0776; MIRS 485. Contact Details Radio Room - VHF Channel 16 c/s 'Uniform', MIRS 309, Tel. 08 282 2622, 08 286 3202 Security Clearances - Fax 08 67 77444 FSCO - C/S FS01, Work 08 677 7362, Jawwal 0599 413827. FSCA - C/S FS02, Work 08 677 7261, Jawwal 0599 411984 ________________________________________ Filipo Tarakinikini / FSCO Israel and oPt Telephone: 02 5890 518, Mobile: 0577204 252, 054 817 3985 Fax: 02 5890 448/523 Email: [email protected], [email protected] 19

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