MER - Reality, contrary to the disinformation
that is so widespread in the West (especially in the U.S.) is that Oslo and all that has
flowed from it, have been economically, political, socially, and psychologically
disastrous for the Palestinian people.
"The political situation under the 'Palestinian Authority' is
now far worse than it was before Oslo. People are disillusioned, intimidated and -- in
sharp contrast with the past -- depoliticized. Opposition to Arafat is not permitted. The
political parties, which used also to fulfill important social functions, have been
destroyed.
Civil society is weakening. Israel pursued a policy of
de-institutionalization and the PA is continuing this policy. Viable civic institutions
continue to function but are under constant threat, especially those associated with the
Islamic movement. The PA is clearly trying to eliminate indigenous institutions and
replace them with its own."
This bold conclusion is from a talk at the Brown University Watson
Institute for International Studies, 1/30/97, by Sara Roy, a Research Fellow at Harvard
University's Center for Middle Eastern Studies. Ms. Roy is among the foremost American
experts on the Palestinian economy. The full report of her remarks is available on the
Web: http://www.MiddleEast.Org/roy1.htm.
