Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements ('Oslo Accords')

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Country/entity: Israel
Palestine
Region: Middle East and North Africa
Agreement name: Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements ('Oslo Accords')
Date: 13 Sep 1993
Agreement status: Multiparty signed/agreed
Interim arrangement: Yes
Agreement/conflict level: Intrastate/intrastate conflict
Arab-Israeli Conflicts (1948 - )
This conflict involves Israelis and Palestinians over territory and belonging and has long historical antecedents. The agreements post-1990 are between the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) and Israel, with some supporting inter-state agreements (i.e. between Israel and Jordan). More recently the importance of the once dominating Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) has diminished not in the least due to the effective disappearance of its left-wing members and the loss of the popularity of their political wing, Fatah. Hamas and other Islamic groups have attained significant relevance in Fatah’s stead, with Hamas controlling the Gaza strip (from which Israel ultimately unilaterally withdrew (not coded as a peace agreement).

Geo-political implications of the conflict have been considerable across the MENA region.
Stage: Framework/substantive - partial
Conflict nature: Government/territory
Peace process: Israel-Palestine peace process
Parties: Government of the State of Israel, signed for by Shimon Peres, and the PLO team (in the Jordanian-Palestinian delegation to the Middle East Peace Conference) (the "Palestinian Delegation"), signed for by Mahmud Abbas.
Third parties: -
Description: Parties agree to establish a Palestinian Interim Self-Government Authority, the elected Council (the "Council"), for the Palestinian people in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, for a transitional period not exceeding five years. Parties agree framework for the interim period, elections, jurisdiction of the elected Council,

Agreement document: IL PS_930913_DeclarationPrinciplesnterimSelf-Government(Oslo Accords).pdf (opens in new tab) | Download PDF

Groups

Children/youth: No specific mention.
Disabled persons: No specific mention.
Elderly/age: No specific mention.
Migrant workers: No specific mention.
Racial/ethnic/national group: No specific mention.
Religious groups: No specific mention.
Indigenous people: No specific mention.
Other groups: No specific mention.
Refugees/displaced persons: Groups→Refugees/displaced persons→Rhetorical
Page 5, Article V TRANSITIONAL PERIOD AND PERMANENT STATUS NEGOTIATIONS
3. It is understood that these negotiations shall cover remaining issues, including: Jerusalem, refugees, settlements, security arrangements, borders, relations and cooperation with other neighbours, and other issues of common interest.

Page 10, ANNEX I: Protocol on the Mode and Conditions of Elections
...3. The future status of displaced Palestinians who were registered on 4 June 1967 will not be prejudiced because they are unable to participate in the election process owing to practical reasons.
Social class: No specific mention.

Gender

Women, girls and gender: No specific mention.
Men and boys: No specific mention.
LGBTI: No specific mention.
Family: No specific mention.

State definition

Nature of state (general): Page 5, Article IV, JURISDICTION
Jurisdiction of the Council will cover West Bank and Gaza Strip territory, except for issues that will be negotiated in the permanent status negotiations. The two sides view the West Bank and the Gaza Strip as a single territorial unit, whose integrity will be preserved during the interim period.

Page 8, ARTICLE XIV ISRAELI WITHDRAWAL FROM THE GAZA STRIP AND JERICHO AREA,
Israel will withdraw from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, as detailed in the protocol attached as Annex II.
State configuration: No specific mention.
Self determination: No specific mention.
Referendum: No specific mention.
State symbols: No specific mention.
Independence/secession: No specific mention.
Accession/unification: No specific mention.
Border delimitation: Page 5, Article V
TRANSITIONAL PERIOD AND PERMANENT STATUS NEGOTIATIONS
...2. Permanent status negotiations will commence as soon as possible, but not later than the beginning of the third year of the interim period, between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian people’s representatives.
3. It is understood that these negotiations shall cover remaining issues, including: Jerusalem, refugees, settlements, security arrangements, borders, relations and cooperation with other neighbours, and other issues of common interest.
4. The two parties agree that the outcome of the permanent status negotiations should not be prejudiced or preempted by agreements reached for the interim period.

Page 9, ANNEX II, Protocol on Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho Area
6. Other than these agreed arrangements, the status of the Gaza Strip and Jericho area will continue to be an integral part of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and will not be changed in the interim period.
Cross-border provision: Page 7, Article XII, LIAISON AND COOPERATION WITH JORDAN AND EGYPT
The two parties will invite the Governments of Jordan and Egypt to participate in establishing further liaison and cooperation arrangements between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian representatives, on the one hand, and the Governments of Jordan and Egypt, on the other hand, to promote cooperation between them. These arrangements will include the constitution of a Continuing Committee that will decide by agreement on the modalities of admission of persons displaced from the West Bank and Gaza Strip in 1967,
together with necessary measures to prevent disruption and disorder. Other matters of common concern will be dealt with by this Committee.

Page 9, ANNEX II, Protocol on Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho Area
4. The above agreement will include arrangements for coordination between both
parties regarding passages:
(a) Gaza - Egypt;
(b) Jericho - Jordan.

Page 15-16, ANNEX IV, Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation concerning Regional Development Programmes
... (9) Regional cooperation in other spheres.

Page 18, Page 18, ANNEX II, It is understood that, subsequent to the Israeli withdrawal, Israel will continue to be responsible for external security, and for internal security and public order of settlements and Israelis. Israeli military forces and civilians may continue to use roads freely within the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area.

Governance

Political institutions (new or reformed): Governance→Political institutions (new or reformed)→Temporary new institutions
Page 4, Article I, AIM OF THE NEGOTIATIONS,
The aim of the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations within the current Middle East peace process is, among other things, to establish a Palestinian Interim Self-Government Authority, the elected Council (the "Council"), for the Palestinian people in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, for a transitional period not exceeding five years, leading to a permanent settlement based on Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973). It is understood that the interim arrangements are an integral part of the whole peace process and that the negotiations on the permanent status will lead to the implementation of Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973).

Page 6, Article VII, INTERIM AGREEMENT
1. The Israeli and Palestinian delegations will negotiate an agreement on the interim period (the "Interim Agreement").
2. The Interim Agreement shall specify, among other things, the structure of the Council, the number of its members, and the transfer of powers and responsibilities from the Israeli military government and its Civil Administration to the Council. The Interim Agreement shall also specify the Council’s executive authority, legislative authority in accordance with Article IX below, and the independent Palestinian judicial organs.
3. The Interim Agreement shall include arrangements, to be implemented upon the inauguration of the Council, for the assumption by the Council of all of the powers and responsibilities transferred previously in accordance with Article VI above.
4. In order to enable the Council to promote economic growth, upon its inauguration, the Council will establish, among other things, a Palestinian Electricity Authority, a Gaza Sea Port Authority, a Palestinian Development Bank, a Palestinian Export Promotion Board, a Palestinian Environmental Authority, a Palestinian Land Authority and a Palestinian Water Administration Authority and any other Authorities agreed upon, in accordance with the Interim Agreement, that will specify their powers and responsibilities.
5. After the inauguration of the Council, the Civil Administration will be dissolved, and the Israeli military government will be withdrawn.

Page 17, Agreed Minutes to the Declaration of Principles
on Interim Self-Government Arrangements, B. SPECIFIC UNDERSTANDINGS AND AGREEMENTS, Article IV, It is understood that:
1. Jurisdiction of the Council will cover West Bank and Gaza Strip territory, except for issues that will be negotiated in the permanent status negotiations: Jerusalem, settlements, military locations and Israelis.
2. The Council’s jurisdiction will apply with regard to the agreed powers, responsibilities, spheres and authorities transferred to it.
Elections: Page 4-5, Article III, ELECTIONS
1. In order that the Palestinian people in the West Bank and Gaza Strip may govern themselves according to democratic principles, direct, free and general political elections will be held for the Council under agreed supervision and international observation, while the Palestinian police will ensure public order.
2. An agreement will be concluded on the exact mode and conditions of the elections in accordance with the protocol attached as Annex I, with the goal of holding the elections not later than nine months after the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles.
3. These elections will constitute a significant interim preparatory step toward the realization of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and their just requirements.

Page 10, ANNEX I: Protocol on the Mode and Conditions of Elections
1. Palestinians of Jerusalem who live there will have the right to participate in the election process, according to an agreement between the two sides.
2. In addition, the election agreement should cover, among other things, the following issues:
(a) The system of elections;
(b) The mode of the agreed supervision and international observation and their personal composition;
(c) Rules and regulations regarding election campaigns, including agreed arrangements for the organizing of mass media, and the possibility of licensing a broadcasting and television station.
3. The future status of displaced Palestinians who were registered on 4 June 1967 will not be prejudiced because they are unable to participate in the election process owing to practical reasons.
Electoral commission: No specific mention.
Political parties reform: No specific mention.
Civil society: No specific mention.
Traditional/religious leaders: No specific mention.
Public administration: [Summary] Agreement outlines the transfer of power form the IDF's Civil Administration to the newly created Palestinian Authority.

Page 5, Article VI, PREPARATORY TRANSFER OF POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Upon the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles and the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area, a transfer of authority from the Israeli military government and its Civil Administration to the authorized Palestinians for this task, as detailed herein, will commence. This transfer of authority will be of a preparatory nature until the inauguration of the Council.

Page 9, ANNEX II, Protocol on Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho Area
5. The offices responsible for carrying out the powers and responsibilities of the Palestinian authority under this Annex II and Article VI of the Declaration of Principles will be located in the Gaza Strip and in the Jericho area pending the inauguration of the Council.
Constitution: No specific mention.

Power sharing

Political power sharing: Power sharing→Political power sharing→International involvement
State level
Page 7, ARTICLE XII LIAISON AND COOPERATION WITH JORDAN AND EGYPT The two parties will invite the Governments of Jordan and Egypt to participate in establishing further liaison and cooperation arrangements between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian representatives, on the one hand, and the Governments of Jordan and Egypt, on the other hand, to promote cooperation between them. These arrangements will include the constitution of a Continuing Committee that will decide by agreement on the modalities of admission of persons displaced from the West Bank and Gaza Strip in 1967, together with necessary measures to prevent disruption and disorder. Other matters of common concern will be dealt with by this Committee.
Power sharing→Political power sharing→Other
State level
Page 6-7, Article IX, LAWS AND MILITARY ORDERS
1. The Council iwill be empowered to legislate, in accordance with the Interim Agreement, within all authorities transferred to it.
2. Both parties will review jointly laws and military orders presently in force in remaining spheres.

Page 7, Article X, JOINT ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN LIAISON COMMITTEE
In order to provide for a smooth implementation of this Declaration of Principles and any subsequent agreements pertaining to the interim period, upon the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles, a Joint Israeli-Palestinian Liaison Committee will be established in order to deal with issues requiring coordination, other issues of common interest and disputes.

Page 18, Article X
It is agreed that, upon the entry into force of the Declaration of Principles, the Israeli and Palestinian delegations will exchange the names of the individuals designated by them as members of the Joint Israeli-Palestinian Liaison Committee. It is further agreed that each side will have an equal number of members in the Joint Committee. The Joint Committee will reach decisions by agreement. The Joint Committee may add other technicians and experts, as necessary. The Joint Committee will decide on the frequency and place or places of its meetings.
Territorial power sharing: Power sharing→Territorial power sharing→Autonomous regions
Page 4, Article I
AIM OF THE NEGOTIATIONS
The aim of the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations within the current Middle
East peace process is, among other things, to establish a Palestinian Interim
Self-Government Authority, the elected Council (the "Council"), for the
Palestinian people in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, for a transitional
period not exceeding five years, leading to a permanent settlement based on
Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973). It is understood that
the interim arrangements are an integral part of the whole peace process and
that the negotiations on the permanent status will lead to the implementation of Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973).

Page 5, Article IV
JURISDICTION
Jurisdiction of the Council will cover West Bank and Gaza Strip territory,
except for issues that will be negotiated in the permanent status negotiations.
The two sides view the West Bank and the Gaza Strip as a single territorial
unit, whose integrity will be preserved during the interim period.

Page 5 Article VI
PREPARATORY TRANSFER OF POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Upon the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles and the
withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area, a transfer of authority
from the Israeli military government and its Civil Administration to the
authorized Palestinians for this task, as detailed herein, will commence. This
transfer of authority will be of a preparatory nature until the inauguration of
the Council.
2. Immediately after the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles
and the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, with the view to
promoting economic development in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, authority will
be transferred to the Palestinians in the following spheres: education and
culture, health, social welfare, direct taxation and tourism. The Palestinian
side will commence in building the Palestinian police force, as agreed upon.

Page 6,
Article VII
INTERIM AGREEMENT
1. The Israeli and Palestinian delegations will negotiate an agreement on the
interim period (the "Interim Agreement").
2. The Interim Agreement shall specify, among other things, the structure of
the Council, the number of its members, and the transfer of powers and
responsibilities from the Israeli military government and its Civil
Administration to the Council. The Interim Agreement shall also specify the
Council’s executive authority, legislative authority in accordance with
Article IX below, and the independent Palestinian judicial organs.
3. The Interim Agreement shall include arrangements, to be implemented upon
the inauguration of the Council, for the assumption by the Council of all of the
powers and responsibilities transferred previously in accordance with Article VI
above.
4. In order to enable the Council to promote economic growth, upon its
inauguration, the Council will establish, among other things, a Palestinian
Electricity Authority, a Gaza Sea Port Authority, a Palestinian Development
Bank, a Palestinian Export Promotion Board, a Palestinian Environmental
Authority, a Palestinian Land Authority and a Palestinian Water Administration
Authority and any other Authorities agreed upon, in accordance with the Interim
Agreement, that will specify their powers and responsibilities.
5. After the inauguration of the Council, the Civil Administration will be
dissolved, and the Israeli military government will be withdrawn.

Page 6-7, Article IX, LAWS AND MILITARY ORDERS
1. The Council will be empowered to legislate, in accordance with the Interim Agreement, within all authorities transferred to it.
2. Both parties will review jointly laws and military orders presently in force in remaining spheres.

Page 11, ANNEX II, Protocol on Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho Area
3. The above agreement will include, among other things:
(b) Structure, powers and responsibilities of the Palestinian authority in these areas, except: external security, settlements, Israelis, foreign relations and other mutually agreed matters;

Page 17, Agreed Minutes to the Declaration of Principles
on Interim Self-Government Arrangements
B. SPECIFIC UNDERSTANDINGS AND AGREEMENTS
Article IV
It is understood that:
1. Jurisdiction of the Council will cover West Bank and Gaza Strip territory,
except for issues that will be negotiated in the permanent status negotiations:
Jerusalem, settlements, military locations and Israelis.
2. The Council’s jurisdiction will apply with regard to the agreed powers,
responsibilities, spheres and authorities transferred to it.
Article VI (2)
It is agreed that the transfer of authority will be as follows:
1. The Palestinian side will inform the Israeli side of the names of the
authorized Palestinians who will assume the powers, authorities and
responsibilities that will be transferred to the Palestinians according to the
Declaration of Principles in the following fields: education and culture,
health, social welfare, direct taxation, tourism and any other authorities
agreed upon.
2. It is understood that the rights and obligations of these offices will not
be affected.
3. Each of the spheres described above will continue to enjoy existing
budgetary allocations in accordance with arrangements to be mutually agreed
upon. These arrangements also will provide for the necessary adjustments
required in order to take into account the taxes collected by the direct
taxation office.
4. Upon the execution of the Declaration of Principles, the Israeli and
Palestinian delegations will immediately commence negotiations on a detailed
plan for the transfer of authority on the above offices in accordance with the
above understandings.
Economic power sharing: Power sharing→Economic power sharing→Sharing of resources
Page 7, Article XI
ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN COOPERATION IN ECONOMIC FIELDS
Recognizing the mutual benefit of cooperation in promoting the development
of the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and Israel, upon the entry into force of this
Declaration of Principles, an Israeli-Palestinian Economic Cooperation Committee will be established in order to develop and implement in a cooperative manner the programmes identified in the protocols attached as Annex III and Annex IV.

Page 8, Article XVI
ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN COOPERATION CONCERNING REGIONAL PROGRAMMES
Both parties view the multilateral working groups as an appropriate
instrument for promoting a "Marshall Plan", the regional programmes and other
programmes, including special programmes for the West Bank and Gaza Strip, as
indicated in the protocol attached as Annex IV.

Page 11, Page 11, ANNEX II, Protocol on Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho Area
...
(f) An economic development and stabilization programme including the
establishment of an Emergency Fund, to encourage foreign investment and
financial and economic support. Both sides will coordinate and cooperate
jointly and unilaterally with regional and international parties to support
these aims;

Page 13, ANNEX III,Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation in Economic and Development Programmes
ANNEX III
Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation
in Economic and Development Programmes
The two sides agree to establish an Israeli-Palestinian Continuing
Committee for Economic Cooperation, focusing, among other things, on the
following:
1. Cooperation in the field of water, including a Water Development Programme
prepared by experts from both sides, which will also specify the mode of
cooperation in the management of water resources in the West Bank and Gaza
Strip, and will include proposals for studies and plans on water rights of each
party, as well as on the equitable utilization of joint water resources for
implementation in and beyond the interim period.
2. Cooperation in the field of electricity, including an Electricity
Development Programme, which will also specify the mode of cooperation for the
production, maintenance, purchase and sale of electricity resources.
3. Cooperation in the field of energy, including an Energy Development
Programme, which will provide for the exploitation of oil and gas for industrial
purposes, particularly in the Gaza Strip and in the Negev, and will encourage
further joint exploitation of other energy resources. This Programme may also
provide for the construction of a petrochemical industrial complex in the Gaza
Strip and the construction of oil and gas pipelines.
4. Cooperation in the field of finance, including a Financial Development and
Action Programme for the encouragement of international investment in the West
Bank and the Gaza Strip, and in Israel, as well as the establishment of a
Palestinian Development Bank.
5. Cooperation in the field of transport and communications, including a
Programme, which will define guidelines for the establishment of a Gaza Sea Port Area, and will provide for the establishing of transport and communications lines to and from the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to Israel and to other countries. In addition, this Programme will provide for carrying out the necessary construction of roads, railways, communications lines, etc.
6. Cooperation in the field of trade, including studies, and Trade Promotion
Programmes, which will encourage local, regional and interregional trade, as
well as a feasibility study of creating free trade zones in the Gaza Strip and
in Israel, mutual access to these zones and cooperation in other areas related
to trade and commerce.
7. Cooperation in the field of industry, including Industrial Development
Programmes, which will provide for the establishment of joint Israeli-
Palestinian Industrial Research and Development Centres, will promote
Palestinian-Israeli joint ventures, and provide guidelines for cooperation in
the textile, food, pharmaceutical, electronics, diamonds, computer and sciencebased industries.
Page 14
8. A Programme for cooperation in, and regulation of, labour relations and
cooperation in social welfare issues.
9. A Human Resource Development and Cooperation Plan, providing for joint
Israeli-Palestinian workshops and seminars, and for the establishment of joint
vocational training centres, research institutes and data banks.
10. An Environmental Protection Plan, providing for joint and/or coordinated
measures in this sphere.
11. A Programme for developing coordination and cooperation in the field of
communications and media.
12. Any other programmes of mutual interest.

ANNEX IV
Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation
concerning Regional Development Programmes
1. The two sides will cooperate in the context of the multilateral peace
efforts in promoting a Development Programme for the region, including the West
Bank and the Gaza Strip, to be initiated by the Group of Seven. The parties
will request the Group of Seven to seek the participation in this Programme of
other interested States, such as members of the Organisation for Economic
Cooperation and Development, regional Arab States and institutions, as well as
members of the private sector.
2. The Development Programme will consist of two elements:
(a) An Economic Development Programme for the West Bank and the Gaza
Strip;
(b) A Regional Economic Development Programme.
A. The Economic Development Programme for the West Bank and the Gaza
Strip will consist of the following elements:
(1) A Social Rehabilitation Programme, including a Housing and
Construction Programme;
(2) A Small and Medium Business Development Plan;
(3) An Infrastructure Development Programme (water, electricity,
transportation and communications, etc.);
(4) A Human Resources Plan;
(5) Other programmes.
B. The Regional Economic Development Programme may consist of the
following elements:
(1) The establishment of a Middle East Development Fund, as a first
step, and a Middle East Development Bank, as a second step;
(2) The development of a joint Israeli-Palestinian-Jordanian Plan for
coordinated exploitation of the Dead Sea area;
(3) The Mediterranean Sea (Gaza) - Dead Sea Canal;
(4) Regional desalinization and other water development projects;
(5) A regional plan for agricultural development, including a
coordinated regional effort for the prevention of
desertification;
/...
A/48/486
S/26560
English
Page 16
(6) Interconnection of electricity grids;
(7) Regional cooperation for the transfer, distribution and
industrial exploitation of gas, oil and other energy resources;
(8) A Regional Tourism, Transportation and Telecommunications
Development Plan;
(9) Regional cooperation in other spheres.
3. The two sides will encourage the multilateral working groups and will
coordinate towards their success. The two parties will encourage
inter-sessional activities, as well as pre-feasibility and feasibility studies,
within the various multilateral working groups.
Military power sharing: Power sharing→Military power sharing→Proportionality
Page 18, Agreed Minutes to the Declaration of Principles
on Interim Self-Government Arrangements
Article VII (5)
The withdrawal of the military government will not prevent Israel from
exercising the powers and responsibilities not transferred to the Council.
Article VIII
It is understood that the Interim Agreement will include arrangements for
cooperation and coordination between the two parties in this regard. It is also
agreed that the transfer of powers and responsibilities to the Palestinian
police will be accomplished in a phased manner, as agreed in the Interim
Agreement.

Page 18, ANNEX II
It is understood that, subsequent to the Israeli withdrawal, Israel will
continue to be responsible for external security, and for internal security and
public order of settlements and Israelis. Israeli military forces and civilians
may continue to use roads freely within the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area.

Human rights and equality

Human rights/RoL general: No specific mention.
Bill of rights/similar: No specific mention.
Treaty incorporation: No specific mention.
Civil and political rights: Human rights and equality→Civil and political rights→Vote and take part
Page 10, ANNEX I: Protocol on the Mode and Conditions of Elections
1. Palestinians of Jerusalem who live there will have the right to participate in the election process, according to an agreement between the two sides.
Socio-economic rights: No specific mention.

Rights related issues

Citizenship: No specific mention.
Democracy: Page 4-5, Article III, ELECTIONS
1. In order that the Palestinian people in the West Bank and Gaza Strip may govern themselves according to democratic principles, direct, free and general political elections will be held for the Council under agreed supervision and international observation, while the Palestinian police will ensure public order.
Detention procedures: No specific mention.
Media and communication: Rights related issues→Media and communication→Media roles
Page 10, ANNEX I: Protocol on the Mode and Conditions of Elections
2. In addition, the election agreement should cover, among other things, the following issues:
(a) The system of elections;
... (c) Rules and regulations regarding election campaigns, including agreed arrangements for the organizing of mass media, and the possibility of licensing a broadcasting and television station.

Page 13, ANNEX III, 11. A Programme for developing coordination and cooperation in the field of communications and media.
Mobility/access: Page 11, ANNEX II, Protocol on Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho Area
(g) Arrangements for a safe passage for persons and transportation between the Gaza Strip and Jericho area.
Protection measures: Rights related issues→Protection measures→Other
Page 14
10. An Environmental Protection Plan, providing for joint and/or coordinated
measures in this sphere.
Other: No specific mention.

Rights institutions

NHRI: No specific mention.
Regional or international human rights institutions: No specific mention.

Justice sector reform

Criminal justice and emergency law: No specific mention.
State of emergency provisions: No specific mention.
Judiciary and courts: Page 6, Article VII, INTERIM AGREEMENT
2. The Interim Agreement shall specify, among other things, the structure of the Council, the number of its members, and the transfer of powers and responsibilities from the Israeli military government and its Civil Administration to the Council. The Interim Agreement shall also specify the Council’s executive authority, legislative authority in accordance with Article IX below, and the independent Palestinian judicial organs.
Prisons and detention: No specific mention.
Traditional Laws: No specific mention.

Socio-economic reconstruction

Development or socio-economic reconstruction: Socio-economic reconstruction→Development or socio-economic reconstruction→Socio-economic development
Page 5, Article VI, PREPARATORY TRANSFER OF POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
… 2. Immediately after the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles and the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, with the view to promoting economic development in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, authority will be transferred to the Palestinians in the following spheres: education and culture, health, social welfare, direct taxation and tourism. The Palestinian side will commence in building the Palestinian police force, as agreed upon.

Page 6, Article VII, INTERIM AGREEMENT
...4. In order to enable the Council to promote economic growth, upon its inauguration, the Council will establish, among other things, a Palestinian Electricity Authority, a Gaza Sea Port Authority, a Palestinian Development Bank, a Palestinian Export Promotion Board, a Palestinian Environmental Authority, a Palestinian Land Authority and a Palestinian Water Administration Authority and any other Authorities agreed upon, in accordance with the Interim Agreement, that will specify their powers and responsibilities.

Page 7, Article XI, ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN COOPERATION IN ECONOMIC FIELDS
Recognizing the mutual benefit of cooperation in promoting the development of the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and Israel, upon the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles, an Israeli-Palestinian Economic Cooperation Committee will be established in order to develop and implement in a cooperative manner the programmes identified in the protocols attached as Annex III and Annex IV.

Page 14, Annex III,
8. A Programme for cooperation in, and regulation of, labour relations and cooperation in social welfare issues.

Page 14, Annex III,
9. A Human Resource Development and Cooperation Plan, providing for joint Israeli-Palestinian workshops and seminars, and for the establishment of joint vocational training centres, research institutes and data banks.

[Summary] also see National economic plan.
Socio-economic reconstruction→Development or socio-economic reconstruction→Infrastructure and reconstruction
Page 13, ANNEX III,Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation in Economic and Development Programmes
The two sides agree to establish an Israeli-Palestinian Continuing Committee for Economic Cooperation, focusing, among other things, on the following:
... 5. Cooperation in the field of transport and communications, including a Programme, which will define guidelines for the establishment of a Gaza Sea Port Area, and will provide for the establishing of transport and communications lines to and from the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to Israel and to other countries. In addition, this Programme will provide for carrying out the necessary construction of roads, railways, communications lines, etc.
National economic plan: Page 8, Article XVI, ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN COOPERATION CONCERNING REGIONAL PROGRAMMES
Both parties view the multilateral working groups as an appropriate instrument for promoting a "Marshall Plan", the regional programmes and other programmes, including special programmes for the West Bank and Gaza Strip, as indicated in the protocol attached as Annex IV.

3. The above agreement will include, among other things:
(f) An economic development and stabilization programme including the establishment of an Emergency Fund, to encourage foreign investment and financial and economic support. Both sides will coordinate and cooperate jointly and unilaterally with regional and international parties to support these aims;

[Summary] See Annex III which details economic cooperation in industry, power, water, transport and communication, trade and energy.

Page 15-16, ANNEX IV, Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation concerning Regional Development Programmes
1. The two sides will cooperate in the context of the multilateral peace efforts in promoting a Development Programme for the region, including the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, to be initiated by the Group of Seven. The parties will request the Group of Seven to seek the participation in this Programme of other interested States, such as members of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, regional Arab States and institutions, as well as members of the private sector.
2. The Development Programme will consist of two elements:
(a) An Economic Development Programme for the West Bank and the Gaza Strip;
(b) A Regional Economic Development Programme.
A. The Economic Development Programme for the West Bank and the Gaza Strip will consist of the following elements:
(1) A Social Rehabilitation Programme, including a Housing and Construction Programme;
(2) A Small and Medium Business Development Plan;
(3) An Infrastructure Development Programme (water, electricity, transportation and communications, etc.);
(4) A Human Resources Plan;
(5) Other programmes.
B. The Regional Economic Development Programme may consist of the following elements:
(1) The establishment of a Middle East Development Fund, as a first step, and a Middle East Development Bank, as a second step;
(2) The development of a joint Israeli-Palestinian-Jordanian Plan for coordinated exploitation of the Dead Sea area;
(3) The Mediterranean Sea (Gaza) - Dead Sea Canal;
(4) Regional desalinization and other water development projects;
(5) A regional plan for agricultural development, including a coordinated regional effort for the prevention of desertification;
(6) Interconnection of electricity grids;
(7) Regional cooperation for the transfer, distribution and industrial exploitation of gas, oil and other energy resources;
(8) A Regional Tourism, Transportation and Telecommunications Development Plan;
(9) Regional cooperation in other spheres.
3. The two sides will encourage the multilateral working groups and will coordinate towards their success. The two parties will encourage inter-sessional activities, as well as pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, within the various multilateral working groups.
Natural resources: Page 13, ANNEX III, Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation in Economic and Development Programmes: The two sides agree to establish an Israeli-Palestinian Continuing Committee for Economic Cooperation, focusing, among other things, on the following:
1. Cooperation in the field of water, including a Water Development Programme prepared by experts from both sides, which will also specify the mode of cooperation in the management of water resources in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and will include proposals for studies and plans on water rights of each party, as well as on the equitable utilization of joint water resources for implementation in and beyond the interim period.
3. Cooperation in the field of energy, including an Energy Development Programme, which will provide for the exploitation of oil and gas for industrial purposes, particularly in the Gaza Strip and in the Negev, and will encourage further joint exploitation of other energy resources. This Programme may also provide for the construction of a petrochemical industrial complex in the Gaza Strip and the construction of oil and gas pipelines.

Page 15-16, ANNEX IV, Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation concerning Regional Development Programmes
...(7) Regional cooperation for the transfer, distribution and industrial exploitation of gas, oil and other energy resources;
International funds: Page 15-16, ANNEX IV, Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation concerning Regional Development Programmes
1. The two sides will cooperate in the context of the multilateral peace efforts in promoting a Development Programme for the region, including the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, to be initiated by the Group of Seven. The parties will request the Group of Seven to seek the participation in this Programme of other interested States, such as members of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, regional Arab States and institutions, as well as members of the private sector.
Business: Page 13, ANNEX III, Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation in Economic and Development Programmes: The two sides agree to establish an Israeli-Palestinian Continuing Committee for Economic Cooperation, focusing, among other things, on the following:
4. Cooperation in the field of finance, including a Financial Development and Action Programme for the encouragement of international investment in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, and in Israel, as well as the establishment of a Palestinian Development Bank.
5. Cooperation in the field of transport and communications, including a Programme, which will define guidelines for the establishment of a Gaza Sea Port Area, and will provide for the establishing of transport and communications lines to and from the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to Israel and to other countries. In addition, this Programme will provide for carrying out the necessary construction of roads, railways, communications lines, etc.
6. Cooperation in the field of trade, including studies, and Trade Promotion Programmes, which will encourage local, regional and interregional trade, as well as a feasibility study of creating free trade zones in the Gaza Strip and in Israel, mutual access to these zones and cooperation in other areas related to trade and commerce.
7. Cooperation in the field of industry, including Industrial Development Programmes, which will provide for the establishment of joint Israeli-Palestinian Industrial Research and Development Centres, will promote Palestinian-Israeli joint ventures, and provide guidelines for cooperation in the textile, food, pharmaceutical, electronics, diamonds, computer and science based industries.
Taxation: Socio-economic reconstruction→Taxation→Power to tax
Page 5, Article VI, PREPARATORY TRANSFER OF POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
... 2. Immediately after the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles and the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, with the view to promoting economic development in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, authority will be transferred to the Palestinians in the following spheres: education and culture, health, social welfare, direct taxation and tourism. The Palestinian side will commence in building the Palestinian police force, as agreed upon.

Page 15-16, ANNEX IV, Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation concerning Regional Development Programmes
... (5) Other programmes.
B. The Regional Economic Development Programme may consist of the following elements:
(1) The establishment of a Middle East Development Fund, as a first step, and a Middle East Development Bank, as a second step;

Page 17, Page 17, Agreed Minutes to the Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements, Article VI (2), It is agreed that the transfer of authority will be as follows:
1. The Palestinian side will inform the Israeli side of the names of the authorized Palestinians who will assume the powers, authorities and responsibilities that will be transferred to the Palestinians according to the Declaration of Principles in the following fields: education and culture, health, social welfare, direct taxation, tourism and any other authorities agreed upon.
3. Each of the spheres described above will continue to enjoy existing budgetary allocations in accordance with arrangements to be mutually agreed upon. These arrangements also will provide for the necessary adjustments required in order to take into account the taxes collected by the direct taxation office.
Banks: Socio-economic reconstruction→Banks→Cross-border financial flows
Page 13, ANNEX III,Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation in Economic and Development Programmes
The two sides agree to establish an Israeli-Palestinian Continuing Committee for Economic Cooperation, focusing, among other things, on the following:
... 4. Cooperation in the field of finance, including a Financial Development and Action Programme for the encouragement of international investment in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, and in Israel, as well as the establishment of a Palestinian Development Bank.

Page 15-16, ANNEX IV, Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation concerning Regional Development Programmes
... (5) Other programmes.
B. The Regional Economic Development Programme may consist of the following elements:
(1) The establishment of a Middle East Development Fund, as a first step, and a Middle East Development Bank, as a second step;

Land, property and environment

Land reform/rights: Land, property and environment→Land reform/rights→Land reform and management
Page 6, Article VII, INTERIM AGREEMENT
...4. In order to enable the Council to promote economic growth, upon its inauguration, the Council will establish, among other things, a Palestinian Electricity Authority, a Gaza Sea Port Authority, a Palestinian Development Bank, a Palestinian Export Promotion Board, a Palestinian Environmental Authority, a Palestinian Land Authority and a Palestinian Water Administration Authority and any other Authorities agreed upon, in accordance with the Interim Agreement, that will specify their powers and responsibilities.
Land, property and environment→Land reform/rights→Other land rights
[Summary] Agreement makes mention of 'settlements'.
Pastoralist/nomadism rights: No specific mention.
Cultural heritage: Land, property and environment→Cultural heritage→Other
Page 5 Article VI
PREPARATORY TRANSFER OF POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
... 2. Immediately after the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles and the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, with the view to promoting economic development in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, authority will be transferred to the Palestinians in the following spheres: education and culture, health, social welfare, direct taxation and tourism. The Palestinian side will commence in building the Palestinian police force, as agreed upon.
Environment: Page 6, Article VII, INTERIM AGREEMENT
...4. In order to enable the Council to promote economic growth, upon its inauguration, the Council will establish, among other things, a Palestinian Electricity Authority, a Gaza Sea Port Authority, a Palestinian Development Bank, a Palestinian Export Promotion Board, a Palestinian Environmental Authority, a Palestinian Land Authority and a Palestinian Water Administration Authority and any other Authorities agreed upon, in accordance with the Interim Agreement, that will specify their powers and responsibilities.

Page 14, Annex III, 10. An Environmental Protection Plan, providing for joint and/or coordinated measures in this sphere.

Page 15-16, ANNEX IV, Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation concerning Regional Development Programmes
...(4) Regional desalinization and other water development projects;
(5) A regional plan for agricultural development, including a coordinated regional effort for the prevention of desertification;
Water or riparian rights or access: Page 6, Article VII, INTERIM AGREEMENT
...4. In order to enable the Council to promote economic growth, upon its inauguration, the Council will establish, among other things, a Palestinian Electricity Authority, a Gaza Sea Port Authority, a Palestinian Development Bank, a Palestinian Export Promotion Board, a Palestinian Environmental Authority, a Palestinian Land Authority and a Palestinian Water Administration Authority and any other Authorities agreed upon, in accordance with the Interim Agreement, that will specify their powers and responsibilities.

Page 13, ANNEX III,Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation in Economic and Development Programmes
The two sides agree to establish an Israeli-Palestinian Continuing Committee for Economic Cooperation, focusing, among other things, on the following:
1. Cooperation in the field of water, including a Water Development Programme prepared by experts from both sides, which will also specify the mode of cooperation in the management of water resources in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and will include proposals for studies and plans on water rights of each party, as well as on the equitable utilization of joint water resources for implementation in and beyond the interim period.

Page 15-16, ANNEX IV, Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation concerning Regional Development Programmes
… 2. The Development Programme will consist of two elements:
… (b) … (3) An Infrastructure Development Programme (water, electricity, transportation and communications, etc.);
... (5) ... B. The Regional Economic Development Programme may consist of the following elements:
(2) The development of a joint Israeli-Palestinian-Jordanian Plan for coordinated exploitation of the Dead Sea area;
(3) The Mediterranean Sea (Gaza) - Dead Sea Canal;
(4) Regional desalinization and other water development projects;

Security sector

Security Guarantees: Page 5, Article V, TRANSITIONAL PERIOD AND PERMANENT STATUS NEGOTIATIONS
... 3. It is understood that these negotiations shall cover remaining issues, including: Jerusalem, refugees, settlements, security arrangements, borders, relations and cooperation with other neighbours, and other issues of common interest.

Page 6, Article VIII, PUBLIC ORDER AND SECURITY
... Israel will continue to carry the responsibility for defending against external threats, as well as the responsibility for overall security of Israelis for the purpose of safeguarding their internal security and public order.

3. The above agreement will include, among other things:
(b) Structure, powers and responsibilities of the Palestinian authority in
these areas, except: external security, settlements, Israelis, foreign
relations and other mutually agreed matters;
Ceasefire: No specific mention.
Police: Page 4-5, Article III, ELECTIONS
1. In order that the Palestinian people in the West Bank and Gaza Strip may govern themselves according to democratic principles, direct, free and general political elections will be held for the Council under agreed supervision and international observation, while the Palestinian police will ensure public order.

Page 5, Article VI, PREPARATORY TRANSFER OF POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
... 2. ...The Palestinian side will commence in building the Palestinian police force, as agreed upon.

Page 6, Article VIII, PUBLIC ORDER AND SECURITY
In order to guarantee public order and internal security for the Palestinians of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, the Council will establish a strong police force, while Israel will continue to carry the responsibility for defending against external threats, as well as the responsibility for overall security of Israelis for the purpose of safeguarding their internal security and public order.

Page 8, Article XIII, REDEPLOYMENT OF ISRAELI FORCES
3. Further redeployments to specified locations will be gradually implemented commensurate with the assumption of responsibility for public order and internal security by the Palestinian police force pursuant to Article VIII above.

Page 11, ANNEX II, Protocol on Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho Area
3. The above agreement will include, among other things:
...(c) Arrangements for the assumption of internal security and public order by the Palestinian police force consisting of police officers recruited locally and from abroad (holding Jordanian passports and Palestinian documents issued by Egypt). Those who will participate in the Palestinian police force coming from abroad should be trained as police and police officers;

Page 18, Article VIII, It is understood that the Interim Agreement will include arrangements for cooperation and coordination between the two parties in this regard. It is also agreed that the transfer of powers and responsibilities to the Palestinian police will be accomplished in a phased manner, as agreed in the Interim Agreement.
Armed forces: Page 6, Article VII, INTERIM AGREEMENT
... 2. The Interim Agreement shall specify, among other things, the structure of the Council, the number of its members, and the transfer of powers and responsibilities from the Israeli military government and its Civil Administration to the Council. The Interim Agreement shall also specify the Council’s executive authority, legislative authority in accordance with Article IX below, and the independent Palestinian judicial organs.
... 5. After the inauguration of the Council, the Civil Administration will be dissolved, and the Israeli military government will be withdrawn.

Page 7-8, Article XIII, REDEPLOYMENT OF ISRAELI FORCES
1. After the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles, and not later than the eve of elections for the Council, a redeployment of Israeli military forces in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip will take place, in addition to withdrawal of Israeli forces carried out in accordance with Article XIV.
2. In redeploying its military forces, Israel will be guided by the principle that its military forces should be redeployed outside populated areas.
3. Further redeployments (sic) to specified locations will be gradually implemented commensurate with the assumption of responsibility for public order and internal security by the Palestinian police force pursuant to Article VIII above.

Page 17, Agreed Minutes to the Declaration of Principles
on Interim Self-Government Arrangements, B. SPECIFIC UNDERSTANDINGS AND AGREEMENTS, Article IV, It is understood that:
1. Jurisdiction of the Council will cover West Bank and Gaza Strip territory, except for issues that will be negotiated in the permanent status negotiations: Jerusalem, settlements, military locations and Israelis.

Page 18, ANNEX II
It is understood that, subsequent to the Israeli withdrawal, Israel will continue to be responsible for external security, and for internal security and public order of settlements and Israelis. Israeli military forces and civilians may continue to use roads freely within the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area.
DDR: No specific mention.
Intelligence services: No specific mention.
Parastatal/rebel and opposition group forces: No specific mention.
Withdrawal of foreign forces: Article V
TRANSITIONAL PERIOD AND PERMANENT STATUS NEGOTIATIONS
1. The five-year transitional period will begin upon the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area.

Page 7-8, Article XIII, REDEPLOYMENT OF ISRAELI FORCES
1. After the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles, and not later than the eve of elections for the Council, a redeployment of Israeli military forces in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip will take place, in addition to withdrawal of Israeli forces carried out in accordance with Article XIV.
2. In redeploying its military forces, Israel will be guided by the principle that its military forces should be redeployed outside populated areas.
3. Further redeployments (sic) to specified locations will be gradually implemented commensurate with the assumption of responsibility for public order and internal security by the Palestinian police force pursuant to Article VIII above.

Page 8, Article XIV, ISRAELI WITHDRAWAL FROM THE GAZA STRIP AND JERICHO AREA
Israel will withdraw from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, as detailed in the protocol attached as Annex II.

Page 11, ANNEX II, Protocol on Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho Area
1. The two sides will conclude and sign within two months from the date of entry into force of this Declaration of Principles an agreement on the withdrawal of Israeli military forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area. This agreement will include comprehensive arrangements to apply in the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area subsequent to the Israeli withdrawal.
2. Israel will implement an accelerated and scheduled withdrawal of Israeli military forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, beginning immediately with the signing of the agreement on the Gaza Strip and Jericho area and to be completed within a period not exceeding four months after the signing of this agreement.

Page 18, Article VII (5), The withdrawal of the military government will not prevent Israel from exercising the powers and responsibilities not transferred to the Council.

Page 18, ANNEX II
It is understood that, subsequent to the Israeli withdrawal, Israel will continue to be responsible for external security, and for internal security and public order of settlements and Israelis. Israeli military forces and civilians may continue to use roads freely within the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area.
Corruption: No specific mention.
Crime/organised crime: No specific mention.
Drugs: No specific mention.
Terrorism: No specific mention.

Transitional justice

Transitional justice general: No specific mention.
Amnesty/pardon: No specific mention.
Courts: No specific mention.
Mechanism: No specific mention.
Prisoner release: No specific mention.
Vetting: No specific mention.
Victims: No specific mention.
Missing persons: No specific mention.
Reparations: No specific mention.
Reconciliation: Page 4, The Government of the State of Israel and the PLO team (in the Jordanian-Palestinian delegation to the Middle East Peace Conference) (the "Palestinian Delegation"), representing the Palestinian people, agree that it is time to put an end to decades of confrontation and conflict, recognize their mutual legitimate and political rights, and strive to live in peaceful coexistence and mutual dignity and security and achieve a just, lasting and comprehensive peace settlement and historic reconciliation through the agreed political process.

Implementation

UN signatory: No specific mention.
Other international signatory: Witnessed by:
The United States, signed for by Warren Christopher;
The Russian Federation, signed for by Andrei V. Kozyrev;
Referendum for agreement: No specific mention.
International mission/force/similar: Page 4-5, Article III, ELECTIONS
1. In order that the Palestinian people in the West Bank and Gaza Strip may govern themselves according to democratic principles, direct, free and general political elections will be held for the Council under agreed supervision and international observation, while the Palestinian police will ensure public order.

Page 11, ANNEX II, Protocol on Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho Area
...
(d) A temporary international or foreign presence, as agreed upon;
Enforcement mechanism: Page 8, Article XV, RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES
1. Disputes arising out of the application or interpretation of this Declaration of Principles, or any subsequent agreements pertaining to the interim period, shall be resolved by negotiations through the Joint Liaison Committee to be established pursuant to Article X above.
2. Disputes which cannot be settled by negotiations may be resolved by a mechanism of conciliation to be agreed upon by the parties.
3. The parties may agree to submit to arbitration disputes relating to the interim period, which cannot be settled through conciliation. To this end, upon the agreement of both parties, the parties will establish an Arbitration Committee.

ARTICLE X JOINT ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN LIAISON COMMITTEE In order to provide for a smooth implementation of this Declaration of Principles and any subsequent agreements pertaining to the interim period, upon the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles, a Joint Israeli-Palestinian Liaison Committee will be established in order to deal with issues requiring coordination, other issues of common interest, and disputes.
Related cases: No specific mention.
Source: UN Peacemaker - http://peacemaker.un.org/; http://peacemaker.un.org/sites/peacemaker.un.org/files/IL%20PS_930913_DeclarationPrinciplesnterimSelf-Government%28Oslo%20Accords%29.pdf

Text:

1993 Declaration of Principles

The Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements is the main agreement signed between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organisation.

It was signed on White House lawn amid much fanfare in September 1993.

Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements:

The Government of the State of Israel and the PLO team (in the Jordanian-Palestinian delegation to the Middle East Peace Conference) (the "Palestinian Delegation"), representing the Palestinian people, agree that it is time to put an end to decades of confrontation and conflict, recognise their mutual legitimate and political rights, and strive to live in peaceful coexistence and mutual dignity and security and achieve a just, lasting and comprehensive peace settlement and historic reconciliation through the agreed political process.

Accordingly, the two sides agree to the following principles:

Article I:

Aim of negotiations:

The aim of the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations within the current Middle East peace process is, among other things, to establish a Palestinian Interim Self-Government Authority, the elected Council (the "Council"), for the Palestinian people in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, for a transitional period not exceeding five years, leading to a permanent settlement based on Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973).

It is understood that the interim arrangements are an integral part of the whole peace process and that the negotiations on the permanent status will lead to the implementation of Security Council resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973).

Article II:

Framework for the interim period:

The agreed framework for the interim period is set forth in this Declaration of Principles.

Article III:

Elections:

1. In order that the Palestinian people in the West Bank and Gaza Strip may govern themselves according to democratic principles, direct, free and general political elections will be held for the Council under agreed supervision and international observation, while the Palestinian police will ensure public order.

2. An agreement will be concluded on the exact mode and conditions of the elections in accordance with the protocol attached as Annex I, with the goal of holding the elections not later than nine months after the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles.

3. These elections will constitute a significant interim preparatory step toward the realisation of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and their just requirements.

Article IV:

Jurisdiction:

Jurisdiction of the Council will cover West Bank and Gaza Strip territory, except for issues that will be negotiated in the permanent status negotiations.

The two sides view the West Bank and the Gaza Strip as a single territorial unit, whose integrity will be preserved during the interim period.

Article V:

Transitional period and permanent status negotiations:

1. The five-year transitional period will begin upon the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area.

2. Permanent status negotiations will commence as soon as possible, but not later than the beginning of the third year of the interim period, between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian people's representatives.

3. It is understood that these negotiations shall cover remaining issues, including:

Jerusalem, refugees, settlements, security arrangements, borders, relations and co-operation with other neighbours, and other issues of common interest.

4. The two parties agree that the outcome of the permanent status negotiations should not be prejudiced or pre-empted by agreements reached for the interim period.

Article VI:

Preparatory transfer of powers and responsibilities:

1. Upon the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles and the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area, a transfer of authority from the Israeli military government and its Civil Administration to the authorised Palestinians for this task, as detailed herein, will commence.

This transfer of authority will be of a preparatory nature until the inauguration of the Council.

2. Immediately after the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles and the withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, with the view to promoting economic development in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, authority will be transferred to the Palestinians in the following spheres:

education and culture, health, social welfare, direct taxation and tourism.

The Palestinian side will commence in building the Palestinian police force, as agreed upon.

Pending the inauguration of the Council, the two parties may negotiate the transfer of additional powers and responsibilities, as agreed upon.

Article VII:

Interim agreement:

1. The Israeli and Palestinian delegations will negotiate an agreement on the interim period (the "Interim Agreement").

2. The Interim Agreement shall specify, among other things, the structure of the Council, the number of its members, and the transfer of powers and responsibilities from the Israeli military government and its Civil Administration to the Council.

The Interim Agreement shall also specify the Council's executive authority, legislative authority in accordance with Article IX below, and the independent Palestinian judicial organs.

3. The Interim Agreement shall include arrangements, to be implemented upon the inauguration of the Council, for the assumption by the Council of all of the powers and responsibilities transferred previously in accordance with Article VI above.

4. In order to enable the Council to promote economic growth, upon its inauguration, the Council will establish, among other things, a Palestinian Electricity Authority, a Gaza Sea Port Authority, a Palestinian Development Bank, a Palestinian Export Promotion Board, a Palestinian Environmental Authority, a Palestinian Land Authority and a Palestinian Water Administration Authority and any other Authorities agreed upon, in accordance with the Interim Agreement, that will specify their powers and responsibilities.

5. After the inauguration of the Council, the Civil Administration will be dissolved, and the Israeli military government will be withdrawn.

Article VIII:

Public order and security:

In order to guarantee public order and internal security for the Palestinians of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, the Council will establish a strong police force, while Israel will continue to carry the responsibility for defending against external threats, as well as the responsibility for overall security of Israelis for the purpose of safeguarding their internal security and public order.

Article IX:

Laws and military orders:

1. The Council will be empowered to legislate, in accordance with the Interim Agreement, within all authorities transferred to it.

2. Both parties will review jointly laws and military orders presently in force in remaining spheres.

Article X:

Joint Israeli-Palestinian liaison committee:

In order to provide for a smooth implementation of this Declaration of Principles and any subsequent agreements pertaining to the interim period, upon the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles, a Joint Israeli-Palestinian Liaison Committee will be established in order to deal with issues requiring coordination, other issues of common interest and disputes.

Article XI:

Israeli-Palestinian cooperation in economic fields:

Recognising the mutual benefit of co-operation in promoting the development of the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and Israel, upon the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles, an Israeli-Palestinian Economic Co-operation Committee will be established in order to develop and implement in a co-operative manner the programmes identified in the protocols attached as Annex III and Annex IV.

Article XII:

Liaison and co-operation with Jordan and Egypt:

The two parties will invite the Governments of Jordan and Egypt to participate in establishing further liaison and co-operation arrangements between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian representatives, on the one hand, and the Governments of Jordan and Egypt, on the other hand, to promote co-operation between them.

These arrangements will include the constitution of a Continuing Committee that will decide by agreement on the modalities of admission of persons displaced from the West Bank and Gaza Strip in 1967, together with necessary measures to prevent disruption and disorder.

Other matters of common concern will be dealt with by this Committee.

Article XIII:

Redeployment of Israeli forces:

1. After the entry into force of this Declaration of Principles, and not later than the eve of elections for the Council, a redeployment of Israeli military forces in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip will take place, in addition to withdrawal of Israeli forces carried out in accordance with Article XIV.

2. In redeploying its military forces, Israel will be guided by the principle that its military forces should be redeployed outside populated areas.

3. Further redeployments to specified locations will be gradually implemented commensurate with the assumption of responsibility for public order and internal security by the Palestinian police force pursuant to Article VIII above.

Article XIV:

Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza strip and Jericho area:

Israel will withdraw from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, as detailed in the protocol attached as Annex II.

Article XV:

Resolution of disputes:

1. Disputes arising out of the application or interpretation of this Declaration of Principles, or any subsequent agreements pertaining to the interim period, shall be resolved by negotiations through the Joint Liaison Committee to be established pursuant to Article X above.

2. Disputes which cannot be settled by negotiations may be resolved by a mechanism of conciliation to be agreed upon by the parties.

3. The parties may agree to submit to arbitration disputes relating to the interim period, which cannot be settled through conciliation.

To this end, upon the agreement of both parties, the parties will establish an arbitration committee.

Article XVI:

Israeli-Palestinian cooperation concerning regional programmes:

Both parties view the multilateral working groups as an appropriate instrument for promoting a "Marshall Plan", the regional programmes and other programmes, including special programmes for the West Bank and Gaza Strip, as indicated in the protocol attached as Annex IV.

Article XVII:

Miscellaneous provisions:

1. This Declaration of Principles will enter into force one month after its signing.

2. All protocols annexed to this Declaration of Principles and agreed minutes pertaining thereto shall be regarded as an integral part hereof.

Done in Washington, DC.

this thirteenth day of September 1993.

For the Government of Israel:

(Signed) Shimon Peres For the PLO:

(Signed) Mahmud Abbas Witnessed by:

The United States of America (Signed) Warren Christopher and The Russian Federation (Signed) Andrei V Kozyrev

Annex I:

Protocol on the Mode and Conditions of Elections:

1. Palestinians of Jerusalem who live there will have the right to participate in the election process, according to an agreement between the two sides.

2. In addition, the election agreement should cover, among other things, the following issues:

(a) The system of elections

(b) The mode of the agreed supervision and international observation and their personal composition

(c) Rules and regulations regarding election campaigns, including agreed arrangements for the organizing of mass media, and the possibility of licensing a broadcasting and television station.

3. The future status of displaced Palestinians who were registered on 4 June 1967 will not be prejudiced because they are unable to participate in the election process owing to practical reasons.

Annex II:

Protocol on Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho Area:

1. The two sides will conclude and sign within two months from the date of entry into force of this Declaration of Principles an agreement on the withdrawal of Israeli military forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area.

This agreement will include comprehensive arrangements to apply in the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area subsequent to the Israeli withdrawal.

2. Israel will implement an accelerated and scheduled withdrawal of Israeli military forces from the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, beginning immediately with the signing of the agreement on the Gaza Strip and Jericho area and to be completed within a period not exceeding four months after the signing of this agreement.

3. The above agreement will include, among other things:

(a) Arrangements for a smooth and peaceful transfer of authority from the Israeli military government and its Civil Administration to the Palestinian representatives

(b) Structure, powers and responsibilities of the Palestinian authority in these areas, except:

external security, settlements, Israelis, foreign relations and other mutually agreed matters

(c) Arrangements for the assumption of internal security and public order by the Palestinian police force consisting of police officers recruited locally and from abroad (holding Jordanian passports and Palestinian documents issued by Egypt).

Those who will participate in the Palestinian police force coming from abroad should be trained as police and police officers

(d) A temporary international or foreign presence, as agreed upon

(e) Establishment of a joint Palestinian-Israeli Co-ordination and Co-operation Committee for mutual security purposes

(f) An economic development and stabilisation programme including the establishment of an Emergency Fund, to encourage foreign investment and financial and economic support.

Both sides will co-ordinate and co-operate jointly and unilaterally with regional and international parties to support these aims

(g) Arrangements for a safe passage for persons and transportation between the Gaza Strip and Jericho area.

4. The above agreement will include arrangements for co-ordination between both parties regarding passages:

(a) Gaza-Egypt

(b) Jericho-Jordan;

5. The offices responsible for carrying out the powers and responsibilities of the Palestinian authority under this Annex II and Article VI of the Declaration of Principles will be located in the Gaza Strip and in the Jericho area pending the inauguration of the Council.

6. Other than these agreed arrangements, the status of the Gaza Strip and Jericho area will continue to be an integral part of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and will not be changed in the interim period.

Annex III:

Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian co-operation in economic and development programmes:

The two sides agree to establish an Israeli-Palestinian continuing committee for economic co-operation, focusing, among other things, on the following:

1. Co-operation in the field of water, including a water development programme prepared by experts from both sides, which will also specify the mode of co-operation in the management of water resources in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and will include proposals for studies and plans on water rights of each party, as well as on the equitable utilization of joint water resources for implementation in and beyond the interim period.

2. Co-operation in the field of electricity, including an Electricity Development Programme, which will also specify the mode of co-operation for the production, maintenance, purchase and sale of electricity resources.

3. Co-operation in the field of energy, including an energy development programme, which will provide for the exploitation of oil and gas for industrial purposes, particularly in the Gaza Strip and in the Negev, and will encourage further joint exploitation of other energy resources.

This Programme may also provide for the construction of a petrochemical industrial complex in the Gaza Strip and the construction of oil and gas pipelines.

4. Co-operation in the field of finance, including a financial development and action programme for the encouragement of international investment in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, and in Israel, as well as the establishment of a Palestinian Development Bank.

5. Co-operation in the field of transport and communications, including a programme, which will define guidelines for the establishment of a Gaza sea port area, and will provide for the establishing of transport and communications lines to and from the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to Israel and to other countries.

In addition, this Programme will provide for carrying out the necessary construction of roads, railways, communications lines, etc.

6. Co-operation in the field of trade, including studies, and trade promotion programmes, which will encourage local, regional and interregional trade, as well as a feasibility study of creating free trade zones in the Gaza Strip and in Israel, mutual access to these zones and co-operation in other areas related to trade and commerce.

7. Co-operation in the field of industry, including industrial development programmes, which will provide for the establishment of joint Israeli-Palestinian industrial research and development centres, will promote Palestinian-Israeli joint ventures, and provide guidelines for co-operation in the textile, food, pharmaceutical, electronics, diamonds, computer and science-based industries.

8. A Programme for co-operation in, and regulation of, labour relations and co-operation in social welfare issues.

9. A human resource development and co-operation plan, providing for joint Israeli-Palestinian workshops and seminars, and for the establishment of joint vocational training centres, research institutes and data banks.

10. An environmental protection plan, providing for joint and/or co-ordinated measures in this sphere.

11. A Programme for developing co-ordination and co-operation in the field of communications and media.

12. Any other programmes of mutual interest.

Annex IV:

Protocol on Israeli-Palestinian co-operation concerning regional development Programmes:

1. The two sides will co-operate in the context of the multilateral peace efforts in promoting a development programme for the region, including the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, to be initiated by the Group of Seven.

The parties will request the Group of Seven to seek the participation in this programme of other interested states, such as members of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, regional Arab states and institutions, as well as members of the private sector.

2. The Development Programme will consist of two elements:

(a) An Economic Development Programme for the West Bank and the Gaza Strip

(b) A Regional Economic Development Programme.

The economic development programme for the West Bank and the Gaza Strip will consist of the following elements:

(1) A Social Rehabilitation Programme, including a Housing and Construction Programme

(2) A Small and Medium Business Development Plan

(3) An Infrastructure Development Programme (water, electricity, transportation and communications, etc)

(4) A Human Resources Plan

(5) Other programmes.

The regional economic development programme may consist of the following elements:

(1) The establishment of a Middle East Development Fund, as a first step, and a Middle East Development Bank, as a second step

(2) The development of a joint Israeli-Palestinian-Jordanian Plan for co-ordinated exploitation of the Dead Sea area

(3) The Mediterranean Sea (Gaza) - Dead Sea Canal

(4) Regional desalinisation and other water development projects

(5) A regional plan for agricultural development, including a coordinated regional effort for the prevention of desertification

(6) Interconnection of electricity grids

(7) Regional co-operation for the transfer, distribution and industrial exploitation of gas, oil and other energy resources

(8) A regional tourism, transportation and telecommunications development plan

(9) Regional co-operation in other spheres.

3. The two sides will encourage the multilateral working groups and will co-ordinate towards their success.

The two parties will encourage inter-sessional activities, as well as pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, within the various multilateral working groups.

Agreed minutes to the Declaration of Principles on interim self-government arrangements:

A. General understandings and agreements:

Any powers and responsibilities transferred to the Palestinians pursuant to the Declaration of Principles prior to the inauguration of the Council will be subject to the same principles pertaining to Article IV, as set out in these agreed minutes below.

B. Specific understandings and agreements:

Article IV:

It is understood that:

1. Jurisdiction of the Council will cover West Bank and Gaza Strip territory, except for issues that will be negotiated in the permanent status negotiations:

Jerusalem, settlements, military locations and Israelis.

2. The Council's jurisdiction will apply with regard to the agreed powers, responsibilities, spheres and authorities transferred to it.

Article VI (2):

It is agreed that the transfer of authority will be as follows:

1. The Palestinian side will inform the Israeli side of the names of the authorised Palestinians who will assume the powers, authorities and responsibilities that will be transferred to the Palestinians according to the Declaration of Principles in the following fields:

education and culture, health, social welfare, direct taxation, tourism and any other authorities agreed upon.

2. It is understood that the rights and obligations of these offices will not be affected.

3. Each of the spheres described above will continue to enjoy existing budgetary allocations in accordance with arrangements to be mutually agreed upon.

These arrangements also will provide for the necessary adjustments required in order to take into account the taxes collected by the direct taxation office.

4. Upon the execution of the Declaration of Principles, the Israeli and Palestinian delegations will immediately commence negotiations on a detailed plan for the transfer of authority on the above offices in accordance with the above understandings.

Article VII (2):

The Interim Agreement will also include arrangements for co-ordination and co-operation.

Article VII (5):

The withdrawal of the military government will not prevent Israel from exercising the powers and responsibilities not transferred to the Council.

Article VIII:

It is understood that the Interim Agreement will include arrangements for co-operation and co-ordination between the two parties in this regard.

It is also agreed that the transfer of powers and responsibilities to the Palestinian police will be accomplished in a phased manner, as agreed in the Interim Agreement.

Article X:

It is agreed that, upon the entry into force of the Declaration of Principles, the Israeli and Palestinian delegations will exchange the names of the individuals designated by them as members of the joint Israeli-Palestinian liaison committee.

It is further agreed that each side will have an equal number of members in the joint committee.

The joint committee will reach decisions by agreement.

The Joint committee may add other technicians and experts, as necessary.

The Joint committee will decide on the frequency and place or places of its meetings.

Annex II:

It is understood that, subsequent to the Israeli withdrawal, Israel will continue to be responsible for external security, and for internal security and public order of settlements and Israelis.

Israeli military forces and civilians may continue to use roads freely within the Gaza Strip and the Jericho area.

Agreed in Washington DC, on 13 September 1993.

For the Government of Israel:

(Signed) Shimon Peres For the PLO:

(Signed) Mahmud Abbas Witnessed by:

The United States of America, (Signed) Warren Christopher and The Russian Federation, (Signed) Andrei V Kozyrev.