European Forum

Swedish Olof Palme Center in Gaza forced to close down

International organizations are exposed to increasingly intense political pressure in Gaza. In the beginning of February, the Olof Palme Center in Gaza was shut down by Hamas and a computer was seized.

A representative of the Hamas administration on 10 February visited the Swedish Palme Center in Gaza -the Swedish organisation that supports (social) democracy throughout the world. He claimed that the center was not authorized to conduct its business and that it needed to register with the local Authority. The Hamas representative also urged Ibtihal Alaloul, the sole employee at the Palme Center, to sign a paper. She refused and the representative left after a while. A few hours later, several armed men arrived and created a threatening mood. "Three or four men with weapons arrived, I could not count any more than that, " said Ibtihal Alaloul. The men looked at her computer and took it with them. They then declared that the office was closed.

Ibtihal Alaloul works as a coordinator for the Palme Center, assisted by a local driver. The Center manages several projects in the area, including a dialogue project that brings together different groups to increase understanding between them. Hamas, however, views foreign organizations with suspicion. Several international organizations have had their offices closed recently. "There are a number of organizations that have worked here for many years, which must now seek a new permit to continue their work. Hamas is trying to take control of the international organizations," said Ibtihal Alaloul.

Jens Orback, Secretary General of the Palme Center, is critical of the closure. "This action is unacceptable, but unfortunately is in line with the developments we see today in Gaza. Women, in particular, face considerable harassment, " said Jens Orback.

Ibtihal Alaloul has recovered her computer and has once again started working.


Sources: Swedish Social Democratic Party (SAP); Google images (picture)