Addressing the issue of protection of women and girls and increased child marriages as well as increasing women’s meaningful participation and decision-making in the public domain, was at the core of the discussions at a high level gathering, organised by EUPOL COPPS in Ramallah on 17 March in the margins of International Women’s Day 2025 and in the context of an aggravated security situation. The event included a panel discussion with stakeholders and duty bearers on women’s rights and empowerment, including the Palestinian Minister of Women’s Affair, Mona al-Khalili, the Minister of Justice, Sharhabeel Al-Zaeem, the Chief of the Palestinian Civil Police, Major General Allam Al Saqqa and the General Director of the Women’s Studies Centre, Sama Oweidah.
Advancing on gender responsive laws, including on the protection of women and girls, on policies and protection mechanisms for gender quotas, as well as anti-discrimination laws aiming at improving women’s placement in leadership position, were among the topics discussed. EUPOL COPPS Head of Mission Karin Limdal underlined the dire circumstances under which the Palestinian counterparts operate. At the same time, she stressed the importance of creating democratic and sustainable police- and criminal justice institutions, as this is a prerequisite for enhanced protection and inclusion of women and girls in society. In this EUPOL COPPS will continue to be a close supporting partner, including on advising and advocating for relevant legislation such as the much-needed Family Protection Bill.