A Historic Step Towards Palestinian Self-Determination: The Launch of Constitution-Drafting Committee
In a historic and deeply symbolic step toward Palestinian self-determination, President Mahmoud Abbas has issued a presidential decree establishing a committee to draft an interim constitution for the State of Palestine.
This comes at a pivotal moment— when more countries push back against Israel’s genocidal aggression against Gaza, call for the withdrawal of occupation forces, and advocate for the assumption of Palestinian responsibility in the Strip. When calls for a ceasefire echo around the world and demands for troops to leave increase. For the people of Gaza and all Palestinians, this decree signals not only a political transition but also a profound affirmation of resilience, dignity, and hope for a future rooted in freedom and sovereignty.
The constitution-drafting committee will serve as the legal backbone of the new state, charged with preparing a framework that reflects the principles of Palestine’s 1988 Declaration of Independence, international law, UN resolutions, and the highest standards of human rights. It will aim to establish a democratic system founded on the rule of law, separation of powers, protection of rights and freedoms, and the peaceful transfer of power.
Importantly, this process is not confined to the halls of leadership. The decree will establish an electronic platform for Palestinians everywhere—in Gaza, the West Bank, Jerusalem, and refugee camps—to contribute ideas and proposals. In doing so, the constitution becomes not merely a legal text but a living expression of the will of the Palestinian people worldwide.
Among the distinguished members appointed to the committee is Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb, Founder and President of Dar al-Kalima University and Founder of Bright Stars of Bethlehem. Rev. Raheb has been known for his dedication for a strong civil and pluralistic society, and equal citizenship. In 2009 he initiated the “Religion & State” program and organized several regional consultations related to the status of constitutions in the Middle East. As one of the most prominent Palestinian Christian leaders and a global advocate for cultural resilience, Dr. Raheb has dedicated his life to equipping Palestinians with tools of creativity, education, and storytelling. His inclusion on the committee embodies the principle that Palestine’s strength lies in its diversity, and that culture, faith, and civil society must be integral to the building of the state.
For Gaza, long synonymous with suffering and siege, this development represents a turning of the page—a chance to imagine and shape a future beyond destruction. For Palestine as a whole, it will mean a bold step toward realizing sovereignty and establishing institutions that uphold freedom, justice, and equality.
The road ahead will be long, but this moment will mark a decisive shift: the beginning of writing Palestine’s future by Palestinians themselves.
