Making services for citizens in Palestinian municipalities inclusive and digital

Context

Palestinian municipalities face significant challenges due to the ongoing conflict: infrastructural damage, inadequate technical equipment, limited financial resources and a lack of personnel are hindering the efficient provision of administrative services. The restricted mobility of the population as a result of roadblocks and checkpoints is impeding access to services and the implementation of municipal projects.

In the current fragile context, municipalities are central institutions for creating stability. Digital approaches can improve their accessibility and effectiveness. To achieve this, municipalities need support to meet the increasing demand for digital administrative solutions.

Objective

Palestinian local government is supported by digital technology, citizen-centred solutions and innovative participation formats, and access is more inclusive.

Approach

The project works to make local administrative services more digital and to develop solutions that harness the value of digital technology.

With the help of human-centred design approaches that focus on the needs of users, it supports municipalities in involving citizens in the development of digital applications and thus in developing user-friendly solutions that are needed and used. Through an improved exchange of experience between national and municipal actors, it supports the mainstreaming of inclusive administrative services in the long term. Together with representatives from the private sector, civil society, and universities, the project develops networks and removes obstacles to innovation by using shared resources.

The project thus promotes a digital and innovative ecosystem that is well-connected and effective, which advances the development of citizen-centred services, provides long-term solutions and improves the exchange of knowledge in the Middle East and North Africa.

Last updated: February 2025