Conflict, Economic Closure and Human Security in Gaza

A report by NCF member Justin Alexander for the Oxford Research Group.

Press Release: Escalating conflict in Gaza can be mitigated, says new report by ORG

[download pdf of the report [1]]

The situation in Gaza is deteriorating rapidly and having a profound impact on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Israels recent declaration that Gaza is a hostile territory could now pave the way for crackdowns on water and electricity supplies and possibly a military offensive in the territory. However, a new report published today argues that "Israel will have no security while Gaza remains blockaded and impoverished" (p4)

Oxford Research Group (ORG), one of Britains leading think tanks, today publishes a unique report that examines the much ignored human dimension of the conflict in Gaza and argues that this sidelined aspect of the conflict is key to a more stable situation. The report, Conflict, Economic Closure and Human Security in Gaza argues that "human security should not be set aside until progress is made on the seemingly intractable political issues" (p4). Indeed, an appreciation of the conflicts effects on
individuals lives is crucial for improving security.

The report recommends practical measures that could improve the lives of civilians in Gaza and neighbouring Israeli communities in the short and medium term and shows how the continuing insecurity is damaging to both sides. Directed at Israelis, Palestinians and the Quartet the recommendations include:

The urgent reopening of the border crossings and resumption in security coordination at them. In a context where UN and NGO officials are making dire warnings about economic collapse and a potential humanitarian disaster since Israel sealed the borders four months ago, the report provides the economic analysis to show why Israel cannot maintain security whilst Gaza remains blockaded and impoverished.
The initiation of legal proceedings where combatants are liable for wrongful killings. There are usually little or no personal consequences for the Israeli army actions that result in the loss of Palestinian civilian lives. Palestinian combatants who kill Israeli civilians should also be held to account. Israel's current policy of "targeted killing" of suspected Palestinian combatants is both unlawful and counterproductive. Combatants suspected of wrongful killings on both sides must be brought to a fair trial. A change in this presumption of immunity could lead to a reduction in civilian casualties
Consideration of an international force along the Gaza-Israel border. If the forces composition and mandate is developed through consultation and designed to gain the confidence of both Israelis and Palestinians, then it could decrease the motivation for launching those attacks and marginalise the elements intent on fermenting conflict and prevent major escalations.
Support for the development of civilian links between Gaza, Sderot and other Israeli communities. It encourages support for local initiatives and calls for the backing of respected figures in Gaza to reduce fears about collaboration. It argues that One of the most effective ways of preventing conflict over the long term is building close ties between people from the opposing communities [as] in Northern Ireland.

ORG Executive Director, Dr John Sloboda said "the situation in Gaza is getting worse by the day. The human suffering in the territory can no longer be ignored, but escalating military activity will only exacerbate this already fragile situation. What is needed is a de-escalation of the violence on either side. Our report details much needed measures that could bring about such a reduction in violence and improve the lives of Gazans and their Israeli neighbours."

Oxford Research Group (ORG) is an independent non-governmental organisation which seeks to bring about positive change on issues of national and international security. Established in 1982, it is now considered to be one of the UKs leading global security think tanks. ORG is a registered charity and uses a combination of innovative publications, expert roundtables, residential, consultations, and engagement with opinion formers and government, to develop and promote, sustainable global security strategies. In 2003, ORG was awarded the Niwano Peace Prize and in 2005 The Independent newspaper named ORG one of the top twenty think tanks in the UK. www.oxfordresearchgroup.org.uk [2]

Justin Alexander has been working with Oxford Research Group as a Middle East analyst on their Inclusive approaches to the Arab-Israeli Conflict project. In 2005-06 he served with the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq, supporting the process of drafting the Iraqi Constitution and reconciliation initiatives including organizing a study tour in South Africa for senior Iraqi parliamentarians. He is currently the principal consultant for Fertile Crescent Consulting, working on conflict resolution and development in the Middle East and beyond.