As Palestine considers its first autonomy charter or constitution, it must avoid these problems by carefully studying the experiences of other countries, but adopting only those provisions that can be rooted in Palestinian legal culture and society. Recently, Palestinian National Authority President Yasser Arafat has named a four member High Legal Commission, chaired by British Palestinian barrister Dr. Anis Al-Qasem. This Commission is in the process of drafting a Basic Law, which will in effect be an interim constitution for the coming period. Part II highlights selected characteristics of Palestinian society that will affect in the achievement of the goal of a constitutional democracy. Part III then presents an overview of some of the potential constitutional structures of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
Reference is made to the experiences of Middle Eastern and European countries.
Part IV discusses some of the issues regarding constitutional rights. Part V concludes that elaboration on all of these areas must continue through discussion among Palestinian leaders and community members in order to give themselves the best chance for creating a vibrant democracy in the Middle East.