December 6, 2005
USAID Launches a New Program Promoting Justice and Law Enforcement
Ramallah, WEST BANK – Under the patronage of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched a new $8 million program Monday to improve the enforcement of justice and respect for the rule of law in the West Bank and Gaza.
President Abbas spoke at the opening ceremony, which was attended by the U.S. Consul General Jacob Walles, USAID Director James Bever, Chief Justice Zuheir Sourani, Minister of Justice Farid Jallad, and Minister of Planning Ghassan Al-Khatib.
The three-year Justice and Enforcement program NETHAM will assist in strengthening the rule of law by working hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Justice, the courts, and other legal institutions.
The first component of the USAID supported program aims to improve coordination, policy planning, and strategic development within the justice sector, as well as provide modern IT equipment and capabilities. The program will also enhance skills of court administrators to improve their efficiency and professional commitment.
The second part of NETHAM focuses on the enforcement of laws and court decisions, which is considered to be problematic within the Palestinian judicial system. While providing technical assistance, training, and mentoring of law enforcement officials, the program intends to strengthen the enforcement of laws, as well as encourage ordinary citizens to comply with court decisions.
Since 1993, Palestinians have received more than $1.7 billion in U.S. economic assistance via USAID projects – more than from any other donor country.
Country: United States of America
Subject: Assistance, Legal issues, Security issues, Statehood-related
Publication Date: 06/12/2005