Building a Successful Palestinian State

RAND Corporation - January 1, 2007 - Back to Resources Page [1]

This study focuses on a single analytical question: How can an independent Palestinian
state be made successful?

Identifying the requirements for success is a pressing policy need if a new Palestinian
state is established. Currently, the United States, Russia, the European Union, and
the United Nations remain committed to the establishment of a Palestinian state, as do
a critical mass of Palestinians and Israelis according to surveys. The “Roadmap,” which
these parties have all officially supported, calls for the establishment of a new Palestinian
state by 2005.1 President Bush recently revised this timetable for the United States,
calling for a new state by 2009. As this book is published, prospects for an independent
Palestine are uncertain, although the recent passing of Yasser Arafat has opened up new
dialogue and new opportunities. Nevertheless, recent history in nation-building clearly
indicates that in the absence of detailed plans, such efforts almost always fail. It is this
void that the present volume seeks to fill.

In this study, we explore options for structuring the institutions of a future Palestinian
state, so as to promote the state’s chances of success. We do not examine how
the parties could reach a settlement that would create an independent Palestinian state.
Rather we develop recommendations, based on analysis, about steps that Palestinians,
Israel, the United States, and the international community can begin to take now to
increase the likelihood that a new Palestinian state will thrive.

It should be emphasized that nation-building even under ideal circumstances is
a very difficult undertaking. If a peace is agreed to, significant distrust will still exist
between Palestinians and Israelis, and some elements in both countries will not accept
a peace settlement and instead will actively seek to disrupt progress toward a successful
Palestinian state. Success will require good planning; significant resources; fortitude;
significant sustained involvement of the international community; and courage, commitment,
and hard work on the part of the Palestinian people.

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RAND Corporation - January 1, 2007 - Back to Resources Page [1]