Palestine: West Bank and Gaza Strip

Abstract This chapter discusses philanthropy in Palestine. Palestinians have a rich culture of philanthropy that has helped to sustain social and economic well-being through conflict and prolonged occupation. Over Palestine's long history of philanthropic giving, several different trends of organized giving for social good have emerged. Today, most philanthropic institutions in Palestine are registered under Palestinian law, and organizations that are registered abroad usually try to reregister as a branch of a foreign organization working in Palestine. In general, citizens enjoy a liberal environment when it comes to establishing organizations in Palestine and a rather free and tolerant atmosphere regarding media and freedom of expression. However, recent political developments following the Hamas election victory and takeover in Gaza are threatening to undermine these fragile achievements.