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Workshops on Developing Public Notification Policies

In conjunction with its work to support local government units (LGUs) as they enhance internal functions and citizen services, Global Communities West Bank and Gaza conducted a series of workshops on developing public notification policies and related communication plans in LGUs. The workshops were implemented in cooperation with 27 LGUs, and focused on ensuring coordination and effective communication processes both within the LGU and with the community. Topics covered included: responsiveness to the needs of citizens and local institutions; citizen participation in decision-making and updating policies; citizen participation in monitoring the performance of the LGU; and opportunities to improve services and other aspects of the LGUs. Participants reviewed and evaluated the policies, practices, and tools used by the municipalities in the area of public notifications, and prepared a first draft of the public notification policy for each LGU.

Fathi Alqam, Public Relations Director in Salfit municipality, commented that “These workshops are an opportunity to learn more about public notification and communication, which help us in adopting this policy in the municipality and improve the relationship between the municipality, the citizens, and the relevant authorities, and promotes the values of community participation, transparency, integrity, accountability, and quality of services.”

Ayman Daraghmeh from Tubas said, "Focus on public notification and its implementation is like a missing point in the work of the municipalities communication with local communities, and challenges must be evaluated and included in a training program to qualify the team for the public notification policies and plans, especially to determine the priorities, and implementation plans."

The workshop was attended by the LGUs of Anabta, Adh Dhahiriya, Jenin, Salfit, Aqraba, Yatta, Beit Sahur, Hebron, Nablus, Bethlehem, Jericho, Halhul, Al-Bireh, Beit Jala, Beit Fajar, Kafr Thulth, 'Attil, Abu Dis, Bir Zeit, Ar Ram, Ramallah, Tubas, Qalqiliya, Al Yamun, Qabalan, Tulkarem, 'Illar. The workshops are a part of the Local Government and Infrastructure (LGI) Program, implemented by Global Communities and funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).