The Role Of Feminist Social Movements In The Political Empowerment Of Palestinian Women

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the extent to which feminist institutions provide organized plans and programs, as well as objectives that meet the needs of women and contribute to their effective participation in political life. The study employed various scientific methodologies, including historical methodology, descriptive methodology, and analytical methodology. The study population consisted of women working in political and legislative institutions in Palestine. The study sample included 73 women randomly selected from political and legislative institutions in the state of Palestine.

The study yielded several key findings, among the most significant of which is the challenge faced by feminist frameworks that originated from political organizations striving for women's liberation. These frameworks encountered difficulties when expanding their scope to include political domains dominated by males. Their priority became the interests of political organizations, emphasizing that Palestinian women are not exempt from politics. Social and personal interests of women were not prioritized, and the feminist issue did not receive sufficient importance, despite the acknowledgment of their self-identity. Furthermore, the weakness or absence of women's participation in political development plans can be attributed to the lack of a comprehensive and progressive development plan at the government level and within the feminist movement. The absence of a unified progressive feminist discourse and a single, inclusive reference reflecting women's priorities and concerns contributes to this. Feminist institutions have not unified their ranks through the establishment of a common platform outlining a shared vision and goals.