The Arc: A Formal Structure for a Palestinian State

Research Summary

q       As a part of RAND�s continuing research on �How can an independent Palestinian state be made successful?� this study follows an earlier book on �Building a Successful Palestinian State�.

q       The present study provides a thoughtful framework for transportation and urban planning to foster economic and social development in the context of a rapidly growing population and currently inadequate physical infrastructure.

q       Palestine is already experiencing a severe population pressure. In addition, once a new state becomes reality, the country may expect a great number of large refugees. In this background, this study is of great significance in suggesting new options for creating an innovative infrastructure to effectively address the demands.

q       Examining Palestine�s current and future demographics, carrying capacity, and economic pressures, the study presents an innovative transportation system called �Arc� linking Jenin in the northern West Bank to Gaza City and Gaza Airport, passing through Palestine�s major towns and cities.

q       The concept of the Arc treats Palestine as an urban space, addressing a wide range of issues like water carriage; communications and power lines; gas and fuel pipelines; and transportation. Over and above, the Arc is expected to become a tangible symbol of Palestinian statehood and progress.

q       As a valuable addition to this, the book also considers a range of related policy challenges, with special reference to the issue of immigration to a new state by Palestinian refugees and others currently living outside the West Bank, Gaza, and Israel.

q       At a point when a critical majority of Palestinians, Israelis, and the International community seriously look towards a negotiated settlement leading to an independent Palestinian state, the study contains certain valuable insights to move forward.

q       Since research and planning in advance of political developments is a critical need to make the process successful, the study becomes a matter of great interest to the Palestinian and Israeli communities, policymakers, and all those who shall contribute to the formation of a new Palestinian state.

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