Palestine

Constitutional Provisions

The 2003 Basic Law of Palestine (as amended) does not explicitly protect the right to life. Article 13(1) stipulates that: "No person shall be subject to any duress or torture. Indictees and all persons deprived of their freedom shall receive proper treatment."  

Under Article 26(5), Palestinians have the right to "conduct private meetings without the presence of police members, and to conduct public meetings, gatherings and processions, within the limits of the law".

Article 84(1) of the Basic Law defines the responsibilities of the Palestinian Security Forces and Police, including their duty to respect human rights and freedoms. 

The Security Forces and the Police are regular forces. They are the armed forces in the country. Their functions are limited to defending the country, serving the people, protecting society and maintaining public order, security and public morals. They shall perform their duties within the limits prescribed by law, with complete respect for rights and freedoms. 

Treaty Adherence

Global Treaties

Regional Treaties

National Legislation

Police Use of Force

There is no legal regulation of police use of force in Palestine. The European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EU COPPS) is supporting "the Palestinian Authority in taking responsibility for law and order, and in particular, in improving its civil police and law enforcement capacity".

Police Oversight

The Basic Law establishes the Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR) with the mandate to function as an ombudsman. It reports directly to the President. The ICHR addresses concerns related to the conduct of law enforcement. 

Caselaw

Global

Views and Concluding Observations of United Nations Treaty Bodies

Palestine has not yet come before the Human Rights Committee or the Committee against Torture.

Regional

There is no regional court established under the 2004 Arab Charter of Human Rights.

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