The first half of the week consisted of training. We had various discussions about the organisations we are going to be working for, the skills we have to offer and security briefings. We also had talks about the history and politics of Palestine. This turned into a lengthy discussion which did leave me feeling greatful that I live in a politically stable country which I think is something many of us take for granted. However I was left questioning how effective my work could actually be to the overall situation.
One piece of advice we were given about the Palestinian culture is ‘the accepting is more important than the eating or drinking.’ – I will keep this in mind!
After training on Tuesday we visited the Consulate General of Jerusalem’s house. We had an informal chat with some delegates. They believe there should be a two-state solution, but have come to terms with the fact that there is little hope for the conflict being resolved in their life time but are however, implementing various measures towards this, and were open to any ideas we had for solving the conflict!
The peace talks current progress was described as; ‘two people trying to share a cake whilst one person is eating it!’
It made me realise how politically strategic countries decisions are, for example the reason why the UK hasn’t yet formally recognised Palestine as a state; they have to be strategic in choosing the right time to do this.
I left feeling disheartened about the situation in Palestine, but optimistic that the work we are going to do will have a positive effect in benefiting the people’s lives whilst they deal with the everyday problems resulting from the occupation.
On Wednesday we went to the Old City of Jerusalem, entering via Damascus gate. We had lunch in the old city. This consisted of a feast of falafel, hummus, pitta and various other salads. We briefly saw the dome of the rock from the outside.
It has been central to almost a century of conflict between Muslims and Jews.; battling over historical and religious meaning, ownership and access rights. The compound which includes the dome of the rock and Al-Aqsa mosque is believed by both religions to be the place where they began.
In the evening we went to see a documentary called ‘The Law in these parts’ . It was directed by Ra’anan Alexandrowicz who is an Israeli . The documentary consisted of a number of separate interviews with Israeli ex military judges. Palestinians and Israelis living in the west bank are tried in different courts; Israelis are tried in the Israeli courts whilst Palestinians are tried in the military courts and are subjected to very different laws.
The judges showed no remorse and when asked if they would make the same decisions if asked again today, they answered in the affirmative.
The story of one man at the end stuck in my head; that he was arrested and whilst kept in prison his land was not being cultivated so the Israelis used this as an excuse to take his land.
Thursday we moved into the flat we are going to be living in for the next three months. It is extremely cold inside! Nobody has central heating in Palestine as it’s very expensive, so we have a few electric heaters.
Tolovetoliveandletlive 