Date: 8 May 2007

Thirty-five representatives from women’s centers, youth groups and community organizations in the municipality of Beit Kahle took part in this workshop.  They discussed way to protect media freedom and ensure not-partisan news outlets that focus on promoting cooperation and open-mindedness.  Also addressed was the need to strengthen the legal system and use it, rather than violence, as a means to resolve conflict.  There was consensus that rising crime rates, deteriorating security conditions and general instability were directly linked to the lack of an independent and effective judiciary.   Reduced mobility and forced confinement as a result of the occupation were also leading to growing poverty rates and increased socio-economic disparity.