On 3 April, EUPOL COPPS Head of Mission Karin Limdal and the Deputy European Union Representative Maria Velasco hosted a Ramadan iftar networking event on Palestinian Women’s Participation and Inclusive State-Building. 

Ms. Limdal held an opening speech on the key importance of women's participation on all levels when delivering security and justice. In front of a congregation of 80 women representatives from Palestinian security and justice institutions, EU foreign representatives and civil society, Ms. Limdal underlined the importance of breaking structural barriers, as no prosperous and democratic states can be built without the full inclusion and participation of women”. 

Deputy Foreign Minister Amal Jadou emphasized on the importance of this forum to facilitate concerted efforts in promoting women’s empowerment through knowledge, education and communication. Dr. Amal further stressed the importance of diplomacy and unity through strength in numbers and by building local and international networks.

Dr. Dalal Iriqat, Associate Professor in Diplomacy, Conflict Resolution and Strategic Planning said that research proves how the involvement of women in peace processes improves the success for sustainable peace. She would like to see Palestine following the steps of other countries that are currently promoting a feminist foreign policy. 

EUPOLCOPPS assists the Palestinian Authority in building its institutions, for a future Palestinian state, focused on security and justice sector reforms. This is effected under Palestinian ownership and in accordance with the best European and international standards. Ultimately the Mission’s objective is to improve the safety and security of the Palestinian people.

The Mission is part of the wider EU effort to support Palestinian state building, in the context of working towards a comprehensive peace, based on a two-State solution.