أكاديميون في مجلس الوزراء : تعزيز أم تراجع لدور الأكاديمي في المشروع الوطني الفلسطيني ؟

Abstract EN

This paper discusses the role of the Palestinian Academics in the national project of self-determination and liberation from the Israeli occupation after 1993, the establishment of the Palestinian Authority based on Oslo Agreement.

Particularly, the paper examines the relationship between Academics and the Palestinian Authority as the official entity representing the national project.

It argues that this role has declined in comparison with the historical leadership role that Palestinian Academics played in the pre 1993 Oslo phase.

The paper asks whether Palestinian Academics are abandoned their leadership and resistance role against the Israeli occupation, becoming part of the Palestinian Authority, identifying with and defending its performance and aspiring to be promoted in its structures.

Furthermore, the paper discusses whether joining the bureaucratic apparatus of the authority worked to ‘tame’ Palestinian Academics in a similar way to that with their close involvement in international NGOs that focus on technical specializations, not necessarily in advancing the national project.

Finally, the paper asks whether the Academics proved their ability to «change from within» as many of them justify why they joined the Palestinian Authority.