Q & A with Hind Khoury
Palestinian National Authority Minister for Jerusalem Affairs
Q: What is your experience as a
Palestinian woman in governemnt?
A: I was embraced and highly respected as a
new, female minister by the Prime Minister and
my colleagues. Many sectors of civil society
and the public were not initially pleased by my
appointment, but eventually they also accepted
me and have since cooperated closely with me
in my work.
Q: As a a Female member of the
Palestinian government, what are
some of the main challenges that you
have faced?
A: Initially it was very difficult to deliver and
work within government, without knowing
exactly how things functioned, in terms
of systems and decision making methods.
Secondly, dealing with the media - in Arabic
and English - was suddenly a major part of
my work, something which I was not quite
prepared for. Thirdly, dealing with and
addressing the public is a must in such a
post - something else that was a challenge
especially when it came to larger local crowds
who were used to rhetoric. My approach to this
can be characterized as professional, accurate
and honest, as I believe that in politics things
cannot be and should not be black and white.
Lastly, the government's work is not lead by
clear policies that guide it at all levels of
intervention. This is a major shortcoming that
in my view should be addressed immediately.
Q: Why is it important, in your opinion,
to include more women in decision-
making positions?
A: Women usually come with a social agenda and
are more concerned about the welfare of the public
and do not pursue a political agenda. Women's
presence is important to reflect their proportion
in society, so that the government projects a more
balanced image. In our context, women are not
normally violent and this could be useful in decision
making and the image of government.
A: I Think the PA [Palestinian National Authority]
can brag about some major achievements in this
regard, as well as an increase in political will. Of
course, if we were not so fully overwhelmed with the
conflict ,we could lead on this subject in the Middle
East and be a model to pursue elsewhere.
Q: How is the Palestinian government
working to promote women's rights and
empowerment?
Q: What barriers have you encountered
in the journey to your current position?
A: Actually, the current position came to me on
a silver platter - I did absolutely nothing to get it
except hard work, integrity, honesty and a great love
for my country and people.
