Refugees International is conducting an assessment mission in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, following a previous assessment of Lebanon, the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip in February 2002. Despite political developments since then, including the attempt to implement the “Road Map” and a temporary cease-fire, the overall humanitarian situation has not improved, and in some instances worsened.  In addition, there are several new issues affecting the lives of Palestinian refugees, including Israeli construction of a wall near the Green Line and implementation of a family unity law.  Ongoing situations of displacement that continue to deteriorate include that of the indigenous Bedouin.   

During the two-week visit, Refugees International will gather information on the current humanitarian situation for Palestinian refugees and make recommendations regarding the social impacts of the wall. RI will explore the impact of the current marriage and citizenship law and carry out an initial assessment of the situation for the Bedouin population of the Negev.