Palestinian economy improving, moderate optimism for 2011
Jerusalem (AsiaNews) – The Palestinian Center for Public Opinion conducted a poll among residents of the Occupied Territories this month. One result is the perceived improvement of the economic situation in 2010, which has given Palestinians a greater sense of optimism for 2011.
The survey found that most Palestinians 74.5 per cent appreciate that financial assistance provided by the EU and the US substantially contributed to the welfare of the Palestinian people. In addition, 44.1 per cent of Palestinians said they received funds from family members working abroad, the center’s director, Dr Nabil Kukali said.
At this point in time, a majority of Palestinians is in favour of a Palestinian currency, this despite the fact that they believe that the Palestinian Monetary Authority PMA is incapable of issuing such a currency and that the present Palestinian economy would be unable to protect the stability of its rate of exchange.
The survey found that the al-Quds newspaper is the primary printed media source for the Palestinians in the Territories from which they learn about the global issues and their impact on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.
Dr Kukali noted that a high rate of the Palestinian public is connected to Internet, as the service is now available at competitive prices in most Palestinian regions. Furthermore, he noted that a high percentage of the Palestinians have already a Facebook account due to the increasing significance of this high-tech communication system in social relations, particularly with relatives and friends abroad.
The survey was conducted among a random sample (1018) of respondents representing the various demographic groups of adult Palestinians, 18 years and above, living in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip
Here are some results:
§ 33.2 per cent of Palestinians expect their financial situation in 2011 to be better than in 2010.
§ 86.5 per cent of Palestinians are homeowners, 13.5 per cent are tenants.
§ 52.2 per cent have no idea about projects in their residential areas, funded by donor countries, designed to improve the infrastructure.
§ 74.5 per cent appreciate that financial assistance provided by the EU and the US.
§ 61.1 per cent read primarily al-Quds newspaper to be well informed about global issues.
§ 97.5 per cent are in favour of establishing a civil airport in the West Bank
Responding to the question:” Do you have a Facebook account or not?”
§ 66.7 per cent answered, “Yes, I have”.
Responding to the question: “How do you describe yourself from the religious aspect?”
§ 1.9 per cent answered “secular”, 53.7 per cent “religious”, 41.2 per cent “traditionalist” and 3.2 per cent “activist”.
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