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(2nd Annual Index)Feb 2020

The 2019 PalestinePress Freedom Index

February 2020

THE 2019 PALESTINE PRESS FREEDOM INDEX

© All rights reserved 2019The Palestinian Center for Development and Media Freedoms MADA

This report has been prepared with the support of the European UnionThe content of this report does not reflect the official opinion of the European Union.

THE 2019 PALESTINE PRESS FREEDOM INDEX

Working Group

Majed Taleb ArouriTeam Leader

Mohammed Assem DraghamehStatistical Expert

West Bank Field Team Gaza Strip Field Team

Samah Mabhouh Sami Al Saei

Safa Hasanat Anal Jada’

Abdelhadei Okal Alaa Zaro

Adli Abu Taha Hafeth Sabra

Fida Hils Haneen Ayesh

Hani Shaer Sara Qarraen

Imad HawashLara Kanan

Omar Abu Awad

Revised and Approved byMr. Mousa Rimawi – MADA’s Director General

Support & Follow-Up TeamMr. Sharif Haj Ali

Ms. Shireen Al-KhateebMr. Ghazi Bani Odeh

External ConsultingMr. Saleh Masharqa / Development Media Center at Biezeit University

Mr. Mumar Orabi/ Watan News AgencyMs. Amal Al-Faqeeh/Shams Center for Media and Human Rights

Mr. Mohammed Rjoub / Journalist

Table of Contents

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 7

2. Press Freedom Index in Palestine in Terms of Areas ............................................... 10

2.1 Legal Safeguards for Press Freedom .....................................................................................10

2.2 Legal & Social Restrictions on Press Freedom:...................................................................10

2.3 Operational Independence of the Media ............................................................................10

2.4 Media Outlets and Diversity of Content ..............................................................................10

2.5 Government Censorship and Self-Censorship ...................................................................11

2.6 Financing Policies ..........................................................................................................................11

2.7 Transparency and Access to Information .............................................................................11

2.8 Self-Regulation and Protection of Journalists ...................................................................11

General Conclusion ....................................................................................................... 12

General Recommendations .......................................................................................... 13

Research Methodology ................................................................................................. 14

Areas of Measuring Palestine Freedom Index ............................................................. 14

1. Legal Safeguards of Press Freedom ..........................................................................................14

2. Legal and Social Restrictions on Press Freedom ..................................................................15

3. Operational Independence of the Media ...............................................................................15

4. Media Outlets and Diversity of Content ..................................................................................15

5. Government Censorship and Self-Censorship ......................................................................15

6. Financing Policies ............................................................................................................................16

7. Transparency and Access to Information ................................................................................16

8. Self-Regulation and Protection of Journalists .......................................................................16

Methodology of Index Calculation .............................................................................. 16

Mechanism of Collecting Information ......................................................................... 17

Calculation Method of Indicators Weights: ................................................................. 17

Sample Design Methodology ....................................................................................... 19

Study Findings ............................................................................................................... 29

1. Findings of the Areas of Press Freedom in Palestine ....................................... 29

2. Findings of the Press Freedom Areas Indicators .............................................. 31

2.1 Legal Safeguards for Press Freedom ......................................................................................31

2.2 Legal and Social Restrictions on Press Freedom: ...............................................................37

2.3 Operational Independence of the Media .............................................................................42

2.4 Media Outlets and Diversity of Content ...............................................................................47

2.5 Government Censorship and Self-Censorship ...................................................................51

2.6 Financing Policies ..........................................................................................................................57

2.7 Transparency and Access to Information .............................................................................65

2.8 Self-Regulation and Protection of Journalists ....................................................................69

General Conclusions ...................................................................................................... 74

General Recommendations .......................................................................................... 75

Table No. (12): Findings and Method of Calculation ................................................... 76

Annexes .......................................................................................................................... 99

Indicators and Method of Calculation ......................................................................... 99

Survey No.(1): for Media Professionals ......................................................................105

Survey No.(2): for Media Directors and Owners ........................................................109

Survey No.(3): for institutions concerned with press freedom ...............................112

The 2019 Palestine Press Freedom Index6

Table of Contents

Executive Summary 2. Press Freedom Index in Palestine in Terms of Areas 92.1 Legal Safeguards for Press Freedom 82.2 Legal & Social Restrictions on Press Freedom: 82.3 Operational Independence of the Media 82.4 Media Outlets and Diversity of Content 82.5 Government Censorship and Self-Censorship 92.6 Financing Policies 92.7 Transparency and Access to Information 92.8 Self-Regulation and Protection of Journalists 10General

The 2019 Palestine Press Freedom Index 7

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

For the second consecutive year, the Palestinian Center for Media Freedoms (MADA) has worked on developing indicators for measuring press freedom in Palestine for the year 2019. These indicators were adopted to measure the progress and decline in the level of press freedom in the country (West Bank and Gaza Strip). A comprehensive analysis of the level of press freedom has been conducted in both geographical areas and the findings were compared with those of 2018.MADA used the press freedom index methodology that was used last year, which is based on temporal comparison between one year and another in the same geographical area, taking into account the relevant international indicators, especially those developed by the Press House and Reporters without Borders. Not to mention the media development indicators developed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNESCO. Furthermore, the methodology takes into consideration what has been decided by the experts as proper for press freedom index in Palestine after redefining and formulating the indicators. Consultations have taken place with specialized persons to review the indicators, ensure their validity and certainty in measuring press freedom index during 2019. The press freedom index methodology is based on the following aspects:1. Legal safeguards of press freedom2. Legal restrictions on press freedom3. Operational independence of the media 4. Media outlets and diversity of content5. Government Censorship and Self-Censorship 6. Financing policies 7. Transparency and access to information 8. Self-regulation and protection of journalistsThe press freedom index this year is based on the same criteria the press freedom index of 2018 was based on: In-depth discussions among human rights organizations, academics, journalists and statisticians. These discussions focused on measurable indicators and annual comparisons. The findings were converted to numbers and weights, and the nature and weight of each indicator was calculated. The indicators were distributed into eight areas, and each area has weight and proportion to the total points. All of the eight areas consist of 72 indicators.According to the points estimation methodology, the score of each indicator ranges between (0) points, which is the lowest point the indicator can score, and (1000) points, which is the highest point the indicator can score.Below are the categories of points: Very bad (Black): when the scale index is between (0-250) pointsBad (Red): when the scale index is between (250-500) pointsProblematic (Orange): when the scale index is between (401-600) pointsFairly Good (Yellow): when the scale index is between (601-800) pointsGood (White): when the scale index is between (801-1000) points


» Study SampleThe study sample consists of 507 respondents, distributed into 321 in the West Bank and 186 in Gaza Strip. In terms of the nature of work of the respondents, the sample is distributed into 421 journalists, broken down as 64.1% in the West Bank and 35.9% in Gaza Strip. Regarding the media outlets, they constitute 76 of the sample broken down as (57% operating in the West Bank compared to 36.8% in Gaza Strip). This is in addition to the sample of human rights organizations1 totaling to ten. Seven of these organizations operate in the West Bank while three in Gaza Strip. The West Bank sample constitutes 60.5% of the sample size while Gaza Strip sample constitutes 39.6%. The male ratio constitutes 64.2% of the study sample, broken down as 38.2% from the West Bank and 26.0% from Gaza Strip. On the other hand, the female ratio constitutes 35.8% of the study sample, broken down as 24.9% from the West Bank and 10.9% from Gaza Strip.The official media professionals constitute 20.7% of the study sample, broken down as 14.7% in the West Bank and 6.0% in Gaza Strip. On the other hand, the non-official media professionals constitute 79.3% of the study sample, broken down as 48.5% in the West Bank and 30.8% in Gaza strip. In terms of the geographical distinction, the sample can be broken down as (23.5% Northern, 24.9% Central, and 14.7% Southern the West Bank), and 36.9% in Gaza Strip, including different governorates.Palestine Press Freedom Index RankingThe press freedom index in Palestine is ranked as problematic (orange in color) in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip.The press freedom index in Palestine, in the areas measured during 2019, scored 460 points. It decreased by 24 points compared to 2018 in which the index scored 484 points out of the grand total points amounting to 1000. This decrease constitutes 4.9% of the press freedom index. It is broken down as 492 points in the West Bank scored during 2018 compared to 457 points scored during 2019. That is a decrease by 35 points, constituting a change of 7.1% of the West Bank index. On the other hand, the decrease in Gaza Strip changed from 475 points scored during 2018 to 466 points scored during 2019. That is a decrease by 9 points, constituting a change of 1.8% of Gaza Strip index. By this, the decrease in the index is higher in the West Bank than in Gaza Strip.

1 Al Mezan Center for Human Rights, the Palestinian Center for Human Rights, Shams Center, Palestinian Journalists Club, Palestinian NGOs Network, Jerusalem Legal Aid and Human Rights Center, Hemaya Center for Human Rights, The Independent Commission for Human Rights – ICHR, Center for Defense of Liberties & Civil Rights (Hurryyat), the Palestinian Center for Development and Media Freedoms (MADA).


Table No. (1): the findings of press freedom areas in Palestine in the years 2018-2019

Area

West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

2019Rate of change in2018

2019Rate of Change in2018

2019 Rate of Change in 2018

1 Legal Safeguards of press freedom 344 -71 376 -62 354 -52

2Legal and social restrictions on press freedom

477 6 487 41 479 16

3Operational independence of the media

447 -122 502 -57 470 -95

4Media outlets and diversity of contents

435 -43 479 -11 455 -26

5Government censorship and self-censorship

520 -23 476 11 501 -14

6 Financing policies 432 -27 437 -3 433 -24

7Transparency and access to information

493 35 483 8 490 25

8Self-regulation and protection of journalists

588 -30 566 23 581 -7

Total 457 -35 466 -9 460 -24

The 2019 index findings have shown that the below three indicators, out of 72 indicators, scored zero points:1. Compliance of domestic and national legislation after the PNA signed international

treaties ensuring press freedom.2. There are legal provisions that criminalize government officials inciting against the

media. 3. The number of journalists summoned by the security or judicial services on the

grounds of their journalistic work during 2018. Below are the indicators which scored 1000 points: 1. There are safeguards guaranteed for press freedom under the Basic Law. 2. There have been no cases in which fines were imposed on journalists for committing

publishing offences during 2018.


PRESS FREEDOM INDEX IN PALESTINEIN TERMS OF THE AREAS

» 1.2 Legal Safeguards of Press FreedomThis area relied on 12 indicators. The relative weight of each indicator amounted to (0.0833), with a score of 83 points per indicator.This indicator decreased by 52 points. It dropped from 406 points scored in 2018 to 354 points scored in 2019, to change from orange (problematic) to red (bad). It decreased in the West Bank by 71 points compared to 2018. It scored 344 points in 2019, compared to 415 points in 2018.On the other hand, it decreased in Gaza Strip by 62 points, as it scored 376 points in 2019 compared to 438 points in 2018.The decrease is noticeable in the indicator of imposing restraining measures by the official authority on the media, such as closures or blocking.2.2 Legal and social restrictions on press freedom:This area relied on 9 indicators. The relative weight of each indicator amounted to (0.1111), with a score of 111 points. This area increased by 16 points during this year. In 2018 it scored 463 points, and rose in 2019 to 479 points.It increased in the West Bank by 6 points, from 471 points scored in 2018 to 477 points scored in 2019.While in Gaza Strip, it increased by 41 points, from 446 points scored in 2018 to 487 points scored in 2019.This change may be attributed to the strengthened and increased knowledge of journalists in Gaza Strip on the legal rules in force to protect public officials against defamation or slander.2.3 Operational independence of the media: This area relied on 8 indicators. The relative weight of each indicator amounted to (0.125), with a score of 125 points. This area decreased by 95 points in Palestine, dropping from 565 points scored in 2018 to 470 points scored in 2019. It decreased in the West Bank by 122 points, as it scored 447 points in 2019 and 569 points in 2018. It also declined in Gaza Strip by 57 points, falling from 559 points scored in 2018 to 502 points scored in 2019.This change is explained by the increased knowledge of the respondents on the procedures and laws related to media licensing and the government’s control over the media.2.4 Media Outlets and Diversity of Content: This area relied on 7 indicators. The relative weight of each indicator amounted to (0.1428), with a score of 143 points. This area decreased by 26 points. It scored (455) points in 2019 compared to (481) points in 2018. It fell in the West Bank by (43) points, from (478) points scored in 2018 to (435) points scored in 2019.


It decreased in Gaza Strip by (11) points, dropping from (490) points scored in 2018 to (479) points scored in 2019.In this area, it was noticed that the weights of two specific indicators used for measurements decreased, “monopoly by the Internet Service Providers (ISPs) or telecommunication companies” and “the government’s use of the media and frequencies ownership licensing as a means of pressure against the independent media”. 2.5 Government Censorship and Self-Censorship:This area relied on 8 indicators. The relative weight of each indicator amounted to (0.125), with a score of 125 points.This area decreased by (14) points between the years 2018-2019. It declined from (515) points scored in 2018 to (501) points scored in 2019. It decreased in West Bank by (23) points while in Gaza Strip it increased by (11) points. The noticeable decrease is noted in the indicators (There are pre-publishing government control measures on the publications) and (writers were subject to official or social threatening for due to publishing). 2.6 Financing Policies: This area relied on 13 indicators. The relative weight of each indicator amounted to (0.0769), with a score of 77 points. This area decreased by (24) points. It fell from (457) points scored in 2018 to (433) points scored in 2019. It decreased in the West Bank by (27) points 2018- 2019, and in Gaza Strip by (3) points in the same period. It is noticed that the greater decrease is noted in the indicator “The public media established under public budgets receive a share of the advertising market” and indicator “The behavioral or legal rules criminalize the media professionals who receive bribes to influence their work”. 2.7 Transparency and Access to Information: This area relied on 8 indicators. The relative weight of each indicator amounted to (0.125), with a score of 125 points. This area increased in Palestine by (25) points. In 2019, it scored a total of (490) points while in 2018 it scored (465) points. It increased between 2018 and 2019 in the West Bank by (35) points, and by (8) points in Gaza Strip. A noticeable improvement was witnessed in the “There are practical mechanisms that ensures access to information” indicator and “There is clarity in the restrictions imposed on the right to access information” indicator. 2.8 Self-Regulation and Protection of Journalists: This area relied on 7 indicators. The relative weight of each indicator amounted to (0.1428), with a score of 143 points. This area decreased by (7) points. It declined from (588) points scored in 2018 to (581) points scored in 2019.


It decreased in the West Bank from (618) points scored in 2018 to (588) points scored in 2019, that is a decrease by (30) points. On the other hand, it increased from (543) points scored in 2018 to (566) points scored in Gaza Strip, that is an increase by (23) points. The decrease is particularly noted in the indicator “There are regular and periodic elections taking place in the journalists’ representative bodies (union)”.

GENERAL CONCLUSIONS:

• Palestine Press Freedom Index decreased from (484) points scored in 2018 to (460) points scored in 2019. That is a decrease by (24) points out of the grand total of 1,000 points.

• According to the rankings adopted by the Index, this score is classified as problematic (orange) which is still declining below the midline, in the middle ranking, which raises concerns about the future of press freedoms.

• Although there are no significant differences in the press freedom index between the West Bank and Gaza Strip, it is noted that the index decreased in the West Bank from 492 points in 2018 to 457 points in 2019, that is a decline by (35) points and a change rate by 7.1%. While in Gaza Strip, it dropped from 475 points in 2018 to 466 points in 2019, which represents a decline by 9 points and a change rate by 1.8%, both of which are still classified for the second year with the same orange problematic ranking.

• Palestine press freedom index of 2019 is based on 8 areas and 27 indicators used for measurement purposes. The findings of the areas ranged between critical and good. The legal safeguards indicator scored 354 points while the financing policies indicator scored 433 points, and these are the least. On the other hand, the self-regulation indicator scored 581 points while the government and self-censorship indicator scored 501 points and these are the highest. The remaining indicators fall in between.

• For the first time, the area of legal safeguards decreased to change the ranking from orange (problematic) to red (bad). That is changing the ranking from bad to worse. The area fell from 406 points in 2018 to 354 points in 2019, with a decrease by 52 points in Palestine. The decline was noticeable in the indicator of restraining measures taken by the official authority against the media, such as closure or blocking.

• Government policies still lack actual measures that would enhance press freedom in Palestine, according to the relied upon indicators. The blocking of websites it still going based on the recommendation of the security services. Moreover, the policy of arresting journalists is continuing. Summoning them to the headquarters of the security services does not affect the result of the index despite the decrease in number. There is no compliance of legislation with international human rights conventions, and there has been no change in relation to the right to access information. In other words, the change is still limited and often in the direction of regression.

• The judicial protection of press freedom is poor and negative, and in many cases, it contributed to the decline of the index in some indicators, such as the indicator of blocking and closing websites. The courts operating in the West Bank did not decide on any of the cases before them. Only one case has been dismissed with innocence in Gaza Strip and it slightly affected the index.


• In general, journalists do not file complaints about the offenses and violations they are subjected to. Only a few of them filed complaints that were investigated, but the results of the investigations are unknown. The victimized journalists were not compensated for the damage they suffered, and no punitive measures were taken against the aggressors. This would affect the results of the index.

• Self-censorship continues to severely restrict press freedom in Palestine, and it poses a greater threat to press freedom than government censorship. Followed by journalists being subjected to family or social pressures on the grounds of information they published. Thus, the relevant indicators are still declining in points.

• The area of transparency and access to information is very negative as a result to the absence of a law on the right of access to information. The area of transparency and access to information remains in place during 2019 under the same problematic ranking, despite the slight improvement in the procedures related to access to information.

» General Recommendations: 1. The need for the Constitutional Court to expedite the interpretation of Article (39) of

the Cybercrime Law of 2018 on blocking websites to reopen the (49) websites that were closed, and the need to cancel any articles that contradict press freedom in a manner consistent with the Palestinian Basic Law and the standards listed in the international human rights conventions.

2. The need for the Palestinian courts to expedite the resolution of cases related to press freedom in which journalists are prosecuted against the background of publication and fulfilling their professional duties, and to ensure respect for the principles established by the Palestinian Basic Law in respecting press freedom.

3. The need for the security services operating in the West Bank and Gaza Strip to stop summoning and detaining journalists on the grounds of their journalistic work.

4. The need to stop all forms of intervening in the work of journalists, including refraining from pressuring them and asking them to withdraw materials that they have published, threatening them, or inciting against them on the background of publishing.

5. The need to form an independent high media council separated from the government to ensure respect for press freedom and the regulation of media outlets.

6. The need for the government to pass the law on the right to access information and provide the necessary mechanisms to enforce the law.

7. Establish a specialized government center to receive and follow up complaints, and seriously investigate complaints submitted by media professionals related to assaulting them and refer the aggressors to justice.

8. Reconsider the government financial policies towards the media, especially fees and taxes imposed on them, so that they do not constitute a burden on the media, and threaten them with closure.

9. Run free and transparent elections at the Syndicate of Journalists and activate its role in protecting journalists’ rights considering it the official representative body of journalists.


10. Ensure the rights of all journalists who work for media institutions that have been closed and review the companies’ law to ensure that the rights of these institutions personnel are guaranteed in the event of closure.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The Palestinian Center for Development & Media Freedoms (MADA) has been working on developing indicators for measuring press freedom in Palestine, to be adopted in measuring the progress and decline in the level of press freedom in the country. These indicators measures press freedom in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. It should be noted that a comprehensive analysis of the level of this freedom has been conducted in both geographical areas. MADA has used the press freedom index methodology that is based on temporal comparison between one year and another in the same geographical area, taking into account the relevant international indicators, especially those developed by the Press House and Reporters without Borders, as well as the media development indicators of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization – UNESCO. The methodology also takes into consideration what has been decided by the experts as proper for the press freedom index in Palestine after redefining and formulating these indicators, and adding a new set of indicators of importance and weight for measuring press freedom in Palestine.The study relied on monitoring indicators related to performance and Palestinian measures to respect press freedom or take the necessary measures in any obstacle to the respect of press freedom. The performance and measures by the Israeli occupation are excluded herein, such as those related to legislation and many practices that no information can be collected about. The researchers decided to replace it by monitoring Israeli violations against press freedom and incorporate the same in the annual report issued by the Palestinian Center for Development & Media Freedoms (MADA) for the year 2019.The methodology used to measure Palestine press freedom index is distinctive as it is based on the idea of comparing between different periods of time, the duration of each is one year, rather than comparing between different countries. Limiting the same to Palestine facilitates the possibility of benefiting from the findings, and adopting policies and measures that contribute to enhancing press freedom. The methodology for press freedom index is based on the following aspects:1. The legal safeguards of press freedom: this area is based on 12 indicators: the

safeguards guaranteed by the Basic Law for press freedom, the compliance of national legislation after the State of Palestine signed international conventions and treaties guaranteeing press freedom, the availability of judicial guarantees at the Palestinian tribunals that protect press freedom, the availability of legal provisions criminalizing government officials who incite against the media, the availability of legal provisions imposing restrictions on addressing ethnic, religious, national or sensitive issues such as children and gender, the number of journalists who have been arrested by security or judicial services on the grounds of their journalistic work, the number of journalists who have been summoned by the security or judicial services against


the background of their journalistic work, pressuring the media professionals by the family or the surrounding community to influence their media views or materials they have published2, the number of journalists or media owners who have been prosecuted or imprisoned due to materials they have wrote or aired, subjecting female/male media professionals to defamation or incitement or slander through the internet against the background of publishing sensitive reports, taking restraining measures by the official authority such as the closure or blocking, the number of cases in which photojournalists or their possessions were subject to assault by the local security services.

2. Legal and social restrictions on press freedom: this area is based on 9 indicators: the availability of applicable laws on the protection of public officials from defamation or slander, the number of cases in which fines have been imposed on journalists under judicial decisions for publication offences, excessive and arbitrary prosecution and criminalization of journalists on the grounds of publication, being physically assaulted by the security services or the official authority during the course of work, seizure or damage of journalistic equipment during their work, filing complaints at the official authorities on the grounds of being physically assaulted or due to damaging their equipment, investigating in the filed complaints by the official authorities, compensation by the public authorities for the physical damages caused by assaults and destroying the equipment, punitive measures taken against those who assaulted the journalists.

3. Operational independence of the media: this area is based on 8 indicators: the laws of licensing media agencies allow the government to control these agencies, licensing laws which allow the government to control media agencies, the licensing procedures impede the work and establishment of independent media agencies, the domination of country-owned media agencies on the newscast and information system within the country, the official media agencies enjoy editorial independence in covering the news of all groups of people, the clarity of media ownership procedures and the opportunity to establish media agencies without political discrimination, the diversity of media ownership, the intentional concealment of the media ownership by official posts as well as of their association with the same.

4. Media outlets and diversity of content: this area is based on seven indicators: the legal provisions ensure the diversity of media ownership at the private, public and partisan levels, the concentration of media outlets in the hands of stakeholders concerned with the State care, joint media ownership for the purpose of controlling all aspects of newscast, production and distribution, the country allows the concentration of media ownership by specific groups, monopoly by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) or telecommunication companies, Internet access for all at low cost, the government uses the media and frequencies ownership as a means to pressure the independent media.

5. Government censorship and self-censorship: this area is based on eight indicators: imposing editorial censorship on the issues published by the media, refraining from

2 The same indicator has been used in two different areas. The 1st one was used to measure its impact on media professionals and the 2nd one to measure its impact on media agencies directors and owners to check for different connotations in the answer.


publishing press materials by the media for fear of being prosecuted by the public authorities, publishing news and articles on websites and withdraw them, subjecting journalists to family or social pressures on the background of information they have published, subjecting a book to official or social threat for being published, there are black lists preventing appearance on the official media, free operation of news and information distribution channels, there are pre-publishing government control measures on the publications.

6. Financing policies: this area is based on 13 indicators: imposing high fees to obtain a wireless frequency or register a newspaper, imposing a value added tax on the purchase of paper, newsprint, broadcasting equipment and other media equipment, restrictions on foreign investment or financing support provided to the media, providing government financial support to the media operated fairly based on the market share, the public media established under public budgets receive a share from the advertising market, the allocation of advertising budgets to the media in an unfair manner, the use of advertising as a means of pressure to influence the decisions of editors, the editorial policy of the agency I work for is subject to the influence of the advertiser, the behavioral or legal rules criminalize the media professionals who receive bribes to influence their work, offering gifts to influence the professional relationship, the average wage of working in the media is sufficient to live in dignity and is enough to protect from any bribes or gifts that might affect the work, allowing the media to receive foreign financing without prior restrictions, the closure of media agencies for financial reasons and inability to cover expenses.

7. Transparency and access to information: this area is based on 8 indicators: there is a law that ensures the right to have access to information, the availability of practical mechanisms to ensure access to information, the clarity of restrictions imposed on the right of access to information, the lack of information and records provided by public institutions to journalists in need of such information for their journalistic work, the official media spokespersons contribute to the provision of the necessary information to journalist for their work, allowing journalists to accompany the security services in field missions, being subjected to direct or indirect pressure to disclose the source of published information, attack journalists and seize their personal belongings such as cell phones, laptops or any other personal devices.

8. Self-regulation and protection of journalists: this area is based on 7 indicators: the law allows media professionals to establish representative bodies, the dismissal of media personnel on the background of objecting to their journalistic work by advertising parties, running regular and periodic elections in the representative body of journalists (union), belonging to a press union established for those practicing the profession of journalism, the press union representing journalists enjoys professionalism and independence, provide women with adequate opportunities to access decision-making positions, establish press union bodies, clubs or societies representing the interests of journalists outside the framework of the Syndicate.

» Index Calculation Methodology: The press freedom index in Palestine is the outcome of in-depth discussions between human rights organizations, academics, journalists and statisticians. These discussions,


which have taken a long time, focused on the nature of indicators which were adopted to measure press freedom within the aspects and categorizations. The provided indicators are measurable, annually comparable, and that their scores may be processed into figures and weights. The indicators were distributed to titles, issues, and groups, taking into account the weight of each group out of the total points, as well as the information resources of each indicator to measure according to a specific methodology in weighing each indicator. The index consists of 72 indicators, and according to the points estimation methodology, it was agreed that the points of each indicator shall range between (0) the lowest point the indicator can score, and (1000) the highest point the indicator can score3.Having viewed the estimation tools, and based on consulting a number of technical experts and statisticians on the estimation tools, an estimation mechanism close to the mechanism by Reporters without Borders but slightly different, was adopted so that the scores are close to Palestinian cultural understanding. Below are the point’s rankings:

Very Bad (Black): when the scale index is between (0-250) pointsBad (red): when the scale index is between (250-500) pointsProblematic (Orange): when the scale index is between (401-600) pointsFairly Good (Yellow): when the scale index is between (601-800) pointsGood (White): when the scale index is between (801-1000) points

Mechanism of Collecting Information: The collection of necessary information depends on different means appropriate to each indicator. The information was obtained from its main sources, in addition to resources active in the field of press freedom in Palestine to maintain the accuracy and credibility of each indicator, notable among these sources:1. The relevant government resources. 2. The civil society organizations active in the field of press freedom in Palestine and

the international organizations, especially those providing information related to qualitative indicators.

3. The surveys for collecting information related to quantitative indicators. A survey was designed for media professionals and another survey was designed for media agencies directors and owners

Mechanism of calculating indicators weights: The measurement indicators rely on the equal weight of the indicator (0.72=72/100). The contribution ratio of each area is calculated according to the numbers of indicators of each area as shown in the table below:

3 Having viewed table number (2) which shows the number of indicators for each area and the percentage of representation of the total area.


Table (2): Distribution of the indicators numbers by area, categorization and percentage of contribution to the overall area

Area No. of Indicators

Total Area weightLegislation Practices

Legal safeguards of press freedom 2 10 12 17%

Legal and social restrictions on press freedom 2 7 9 13%

Operational independence of the media 3 5 8 11%

Media Outlets and diversity of content 2 5 7 10%

Government censorship and self- censorship - 8 8 11%

Financing policies 5 8 13 18%

Transparency and access to information 2 6 8 11%

Self-regulation and protection of journalists 1 6 7 10%

Total 17 55 72 100

The contribution ratio of each indicator of each area is calculated depending on the total number of the indicators of the area.


METHODOLOGY OF SAMPLE DESIGN

This section addresses an overview of the study methodology, population, sample, tool, the validity indications of the used tool, the variables and procedures of the study, and the statistical processing. This is explained below. Study Methodology: for the purpose of this study, the field descriptive approach was used to collect data from the study population and to identify its characteristics as well as the indicators of press freedom. This methodology serves the study purposes. The press freedom index methodology is based on the following aspects: 1. Legal safeguards of press freedom.2. Legal restrictions on press freedom.3. Operational independence of the media.4. Media outlets and diversity of content.5. Government censorship and self-censorship. 6. Financing policies. 7. Transparency and access to information.8. Self-regulation and protection of journalists.Study Population: There is no standardized framework for the number of journalists in the Palestinian territories. For the purpose of measuring the index, it was assumed that the number of journalists in the West Bank is 1,300 and in Gaza Strip 750, that is a total of 2,050. According to the data found on the website of the Journalists Syndicate, there are 900 journalists in the West Bank. One of the Journalists Syndicate members noted that the number of journalists registered at the Syndicate is 1,900, broken down as (1,300 in the West Bank, and 600 in Gaza Strip). While other resources in the Journalists Syndicate noted that the number in Gaza Strip is up to 750 journalists. Thus, we assumed the highest figures. As for the media agencies, all of the active agencies across the governorates were surveyed. A total of 76 active agencies were selected and monitored, during a meeting of the field researchers of MADA in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Given that it was not possible to rely on the records of the Ministry of Information since these records were not updated, and since there are great number of non-active registered agencies, which makes it not valid to adopt such records as a means to select the sample.At the human rights level, the 12 active human rights organizations were adopted, amounting to 12. Total of (10) organizations responded in developing the index, by completing the survey which was sufficient as a research population.Study Sample:1. Media professionals: this sample consisted of (421 female/male journalists) broken

down as (270 from the West Bank, and 151 from Gaza Strip). This sample was selected through the random cluster sampling in several phases.

2. Media directors and owners: this sample consisted of (76 media agencies) broken down as (44 agencies operating in the West Bank, and 32 in Gaza Strip). This sample was selected through the random cluster sampling in two phases.


3. Human rights organizations: this sample consisted of 10 human rights organizations, 7 of which operating in the West Bank while 3 in Gaza Strip.

The Calculation Method of the Sample Size: The sample size amounting to 497 individuals (421 media professionals and 76 managers and owners of media agencies) was calculated using the below equation:

n: sample size t: constant equals 1.96 of the confidence level 95%p: key proportional indicator estimates (0.5)e: the allowed margin of error (0.07) The size-proportionate distribution: this method is used if the layers are different in size according to the following equation:

The West Bank sample constituted 63.2% of the overall sample size, compared to 36.8% for Gaza Strip.

Proportional Distribution of (media professionals, directors, and owners) sample by the governorate

2

2 )1(*e

pptn −=

)(NNhnnh =

22


Dissemination Levels:

Palestine, at the overall level, and at the West Bank and Gaza Strip with a marginal error by less

than 5%.

Mechanism of Selection:

1. The media outlets were visited in the field. The target group and the required number were

randomly selected.

Jenin3%

Tubas3%

Nablus11%

Tulkarem3%

Qalqilya4%

Salfit3%

Ramallah & Al-Bireh15%

Jericho3%Jerusalem

4%Bethlehem

7%

Hebron 8%

Northern Gaza 7%

Gaza17%

Deir Al-Balah2%

Khan Younes4%

Rafah 6%

270

447

151

323

421

76

100

50100150200250300350400450

Media Professionals Media stations Human rightsorganziations


Male 64%

Female 36%

Sex of Respondent


Dissemination Levels: Palestine, at the overall level, and at the West Bank and Gaza Strip with a marginal error by less than 5%. Mechanism of Selection: 1. The media outlets were visited in the field. The target group and the required number

were randomly selected.2. A random female proportion was selected from the sample by (35.8%), as well as a

male proportion by (64.2%) according to their estimated numbers out of the total number of journalists.

The Study Tool: the study tool has been developed to collect data related press freedom index in Palestine having viewed the previous studies and after preparing a draft framework of indicators to be sent to several relevant parties such as the Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR) and the Human Rights Organizations Council as well as experts in the field of press freedom. After that, the measurement tools were developed according to the major aspects (legislation, practices and legal framework). This resulted in three surveys targeting journalists in order to measure the indicators related to the nature of their journalistic work. The second survey targeted the owners of media agencies to measure the indicators related to the nature their work. As to the third, it targeted human rights organizations to address the legal articles related to press freedom. Sections of the Surveys: First Section: included the introduction which consists of a set of elements that determine the objective of the study, the type of data and information to be collected from the sample population. This section also reassured the respondents the confidentiality of information which will only be used for the purposes of scientific research.Second Section: demographic information of the study sample. This study includes two types of variables: First: Independent Variables: • Territory Variable: two levels (the West Bank including Jerusalem, Gaza Strip).• Governorate Variable: all country governorates.• Sex Variable: two levels (male, female). • Age Variable: it includes five levels (from 20 to 25 years old, from 26 to 30 years old,

22




than 5%.



randomly selected.

Jenin3%

Tubas3%

Nablus11%

Tulkarem3%

Qalqilya4%

Salfit3%


Jericho3%Jerusalem

4%Bethlehem

7%

Hebron 8%

Northern Gaza 7%

Gaza17%

Deir Al-Balah2%

Khan Younes4%

Rafah 6%

270

447

151

323

421

76

100

50100150200250300350400450



Male 64%

Female 36%

Sex of Respondent

22




than 5%.



randomly selected.

Jenin3%

Tubas3%

Nablus11%

Tulkarem3%

Qalqilya4%

Salfit3%


Jericho3%Jerusalem

4%Bethlehem

7%

Hebron 8%

Northern Gaza 7%

Gaza17%

Deir Al-Balah2%

Khan Younes4%

Rafah 6%

270

447

151

323

421

76

100

50100150200250300350400450



Male 64%

Female 36%

Sex of Respondent


from 31 to 40 years old, from 41 to 50 years old, and finally older than 51 years old). • Educational Attainment Variable: five levels (high school, intermediate diploma,

bachelor, masters, PhD).• Workplace Variable: five levels (Official media, Non-official media, Arab media outlet,

foreign media outlet, freelance/independent press).• Variable of Major Media Outlet: four levels (written, audio, visual, or electronic).• Variable of Number of Working Years in Journalism: four levels (from 1 to 5 years, from

6 to 10 years, from 11 to 15 years, or more than 16 years). • Geographical Distinction Variable: four levels (northern, central, and southern West

Bank, Gaza Strip).Second: Dependent Variables: The responses of the sample population to the tool paragraphs according to the study areas: 1. First area: legal safeguards of press freedom2. Second area: legal restrictions on press freedom3. Third area: operational independence of the media 4. Fourth area: media outlets and diversity of content 5. Fifth area: government censorship and self-censorship6. Sixth area: financing policies 7. Seventh area: transparency and access to information 8. Eighth area: self-regulation and protection of journalists. Statistical Processing: For the purpose of processing the data, the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPPS) was used with the below elements: 1. Frequencies and ratios 2. Cronbach’s alpha coefficientTool Validity: the tool validity of this study has been calculated using the Cronbach’s alpha equation. The validity coefficient value amounted to (86.0%), which is a very good value that meets the scientific research purposes.Study Procedures: The study was conducted according to the following steps: • Finalizing the study tool • Identifying the study sample population size • Designing the survey in an electronic form • Collecting the surveys from the sample population, coding, and statistically processing

their data using the (SPSS V25).First Phase: an initial meeting was held in which the needs and objectives of the study were identified, and the surveys were presented in form and content. Second Phase: Training on Data Collection


The training was conducted to cover all subjects related to the fieldwork and to complete the survey. This included conducting interview and completing the survey to train the staff on all necessary skills required to ensure the success of the project. The training focused on the objectives of the study and its significance.Third Phase: Data Collection Time Reference: The survey was conducted in the period between December15, 2019 until January 5, 2020. Mechanism of Work: 1. The Palestinian Center for Development & Media Freedoms (MADA) has assigned 14

researchers for the fieldwork. 2. The researchers surveyed the existing media agencies according to the number

specified in the framework. Fourth Phase: Data Entry 1. Programming During this phase, the entry programs were developed using the computerized forms on the tablet. The entry rules were also developed in a manner that ensures entering the surveys properly. Also, the data cleaning process was conducted to examine the data after entry as this process examines the variables at the survey level. 2. Entry The data entry began on January 2, 2020 and ended on January 15, 2020, which is the data collection period.3. Data Cleansing Comprehensive cleaning rules have been developed among the questions at the survey level to ensure consistency of questions with each other and responses that are out of range or irrational.Fifth Phase: Data ProcessingFor the purposes of this study, the numbers and ratios were divided for the answering options for each indicator.Distribution of Study Sample 1. Sex Variable

Table No. (4): Distribution of the sample population by sex variable

Sex Variable West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

Male 190 129 319

Female 124 54 178

Total 314 183 497

The 2019 Palestine Press Freedom Index

28

Proportional Distribution of Study Sample Population by Age and Territory

16.6% 19.1% 17.5%

34.7%27.3%

32.0%37.9% 38.8% 38.2%

8.0% 12.6% 9.7%2.9% 2.2% 2.6%

0.0%

20.0%

40.0%

60.0%

80.0%

100.0%


20-25 26-30 31-40 41-50 older than 51

The above table shows that 38.2% of the study sample falls in the age group 31-40, while 30.2% of the

study sample fall in the age group 26-30.

2- Educational Attainment Variable:

Table No. (6): Distribution of the study sample population by the educational attainment variable

Educational Attainment Variable


High school 15 2 17

Intermediate diploma 65 30 95

Bachelor 212 124 336

Masters 20 26 46

PhD 2 1 3

Total 314 183 497

24

Proportional Distribution of Study Sample Population by Sex and Territory

The rate of males in the study sample constituted 64.2%, 38.2% of which were from the West Bank while 26.0% from Gaza Strip. On the other hand, the females made up 35.8% of the sample population, 24.9% of which these females were from the West Bank while 10.9% from Gaza Strip. 2. Age Group Variable

Table No. (5): Distribution of the sample population by age group variableAge Group Variable West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

From 20 to 25 52 35 87

From 26 to 30 109 50 159

From 31 to 40 119 71 190

From 41 to 50 25 23 48

Older than 51 9 4 13

Total 314 183 497

Proportional Distribution of Study Sample Population by Age and Territory

27

Proportional Distribution of Study Sample Population by Sex and Territory

The rate of males in the study sample constituted 64.2%, 38.2% of which were from the West Bank while

26.0% from Gaza Strip. On the other hand, the females made up 35.8% of the sample population, 24.9%

of which these females were from the West Bank while 10.9% from Gaza Strip.

2- Age Group Variable

Table No. (5): Distribution of the sample population by age group variable

Age Group Variable


From 20 to 25 52 35 87

From 26 to 30 109 50 159

From 31 to 40 119 71 190

From 41 to 50 25 23 48

Older than 51 9 4 13

Total 314 183 497

38.2%26.0%

64.2%

24.9%10.9%

35.8%

0.0%

20.0%

40.0%

60.0%

80.0%

100.0%


Males Females


The above table shows that 38.2% of the study sample falls in the age group 31-40, while 30.2% of the study sample fall in the age group 26-30.3. Educational Attainment Variable: Table No. (6): Distribution of the study sample population by the educational attainment

variable

Educational Attainment Variable West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

High school 15 2 17

Intermediate diploma 65 30 95

Bachelor 212 124 336

Masters 20 26 46

PhD 2 1 3

Total 314 183 497

Proportional Distribution of the Study Sample Population by Scientific Qualification and Territory

The above table shows that 67.6% of the study sample holds a bachelor degree. 4. Workplace Variable:

Table No. (7): Distribution of the Study sample population by the area of work variableArea of Work Variable West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

Official media 73 30 103

Non-official media 175 121 296

Arabic agency 47 24 71

Foreign agency 10 3 13

Freelance press 9 5 14

Total 314 183 497

29

Proportional Distribution of the Study Sample Population by Scientific Qualification and Territory

The above table shows that 67.6% of the study sample holds a bachelor degree. 4- Workplace Variable:

Table No. (7): Distribution of the Study sample population by the area of work

variable Area of Work

Variable West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

Official media 73 30 103 Non-official media 175 121 296 Arabic agency 47 24 71 Foreign agency 10 3 13 Freelance press 9 5 14 Total 314 183 497

4.8%1.1% 3.4%

20.7%16.4% 19.1%

67.5% 67.8% 67.6%

6.4%14.2%

9.3%0.6% 0.5% 0.6%

0.0%10.0%20.0%30.0%40.0%50.0%60.0%70.0%80.0%90.0%

100.0%


High School Intermediate Diploma Bachelor Masters PhD


Proportional Distribution of the study Sample Population by Workplace and Territory

The rate of official media professionals constituted 20.7% of the study sample, broken down as 16.4% in the West Bank and 23.2% in Gaza Strip. On the other hand, the rate of non-official media professionals constituted 59.6% of the study sample, broken down as 55.7% in the West Bank and 66.1% in Gaza strip.5. Geographical Distinction VariableTable No. (8): distribution of the study sample population by the geographical distinction

variable Geographical Distinction Variable Number Rate %

Northern 117 23.5%

Central 124 24.9%

Southern 73 14.7%

Gaza 183 36.8%

Total 497 100.0%

The above table shows that the study sample is distributed according to the geographic distinction by 63.2% in the West Bank, broken down as (23.5% northern, 24.9% central, and 14.7% southern), and 36.8% in Gaza Strip.

30

Proportional Distribution of the study Sample Population by Workplace and Territory

The rate of official media professionals constituted 20.7% of the study sample, broken down as 16.4%

in the West Bank and 23.2% in Gaza Strip. On the other hand, the rate of non-official media professionals

constituted 59.6% of the study sample, broken down as 55.7% in the West Bank and 66.1% in Gaza strip.

5- Geographical Distinction Variable

Table No. (8): distribution of the study sample population by the geographical distinction

variable

Geographical Distinction Variable

Number Rate %

Northern 117 23.5% Central 124 24.9% Southern 73 14.7% Gaza 183 36.8% Total 497 100.0%

The above table shows that the study sample is distributed according to the geographic distinction

by 63.2% in the West Bank, broken down as (23.5% northern, 24.9% central, and 14.7%

southern), and 36.8% in Gaza Strip.

23.2%16.4%

20.7%

55.7%

66.1%59.6%

15.0% 13.1% 14.3%

3.2% 1.6% 2.6%2.9% 2.7% 2.8%0.0%

10.0%

20.0%

30.0%

40.0%

50.0%

60.0%

70.0%

80.0%

90.0%

100.0%


Official Media Non-official media Arabic agency foreign agency freelance press


Table No. (9): Distribution of the Study sample population by the major media outlet variable

Major media outlet variable West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

Written 48 23 71

Audible 88 40 128

Visual 107 54 161

Electronic 71 66 137

Total 314 183 497

Proportional Distribution of Study Sample Population by Media Outlet and Territory

The data indicate that 32.4% of the study sample work in the visual media, while 27.6% work in the electronic media and 25.8% work in audible media.Table No. (10): Distribution of the study sample population by the number of experience

year’s variable The number of experience years variable West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

From 1 to 5 years 106 62 168

From 6 to 10 years 100 69 169

From 11 to 15 years 58 30 88

More than 16 years 50 22 72

Total 314 183 497

31

Table No. (9): Distribution of the Study sample population by the major media outlet

variable Major media outlet

variable West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

Written 48 23 71 Audible 88 40 128 Visual 107 54 161 Electronic 71 66 137 Total 314 183 497

Proportional Distribution of Study Sample Population by Media Outlet and Territory

The data indicate that 32.4% of the study sample work in the visual media, while 27.6% work in

the electronic media and 25.8% work in audible media.

Table No. (10): Distribution of the study sample population by the number of experience

year’s variable The number of experience

years variable West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

From 1 to 5 years 106 62 168 From 6 to 10 years 100 69 169 From 11 to 15 years 58 30 88 More than 16 years 50 22 72 Total 314 183 497

15.3% 12.6% 14.3%

28.0%21.9%

25.8%34.1%

29.5% 32.4%

22.6%

36.1%27.6%

0.0%10.0%20.0%30.0%40.0%50.0%60.0%70.0%80.0%90.0%

100.0%


Written Audible Visual Electronic


Proportional Distribution of Study Sample Population by umber of experience years and Territory

The study findings showed that 34.0% of the sample has worked more than five years and less

than ten years in the media and press sector. On the other hand, 14.5% of the study sample has

worked more than 15 years in the media and press sector.

33.8% 33.9% 33.8%31.8%37.7% 34.0%

18.5% 16.4% 17.7%15.9% 12.0% 14.5%

0.0%

20.0%

40.0%

60.0%

80.0%

100.0%


1-5 years 6-10 years 11-15 years more than 15 years

28

Proportional Distribution of Study Sample Population by umberof experience years and Territory

The study findings showed that 34.0% of the sample has worked more than five years and less than ten years in the media and press sector. On the other hand, 14.5% of the study sample has worked more than 15 years in the media and press sector.


STUDY FINDINGS

The Palestinian Center for Development & Media Freedoms (MADA), through this study, has strived to measure press freedom in Palestine. To this end, it has developed indicators and adopted them to measure the extent of progress and decline in the level of press freedom in the country. These indicators are intended to measure press freedom in the West Bank, including Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip. The level of press freedom in Palestine has been analyzed in both geographical territories.MADA has used the press freedom index methodology that is based on temporal comparison between one year and another in the same geographical area, taking into account the relevant international indicators, especially those developed by the Press House and Reporters without Borders, and the media development indicators developed by UNESCO. The methodology also takes into consideration what has been decided by the experts as proper for the press freedom index in Palestine after redefining and formulating the indicators and adding a new set of indicators of importance and weight in measuring press freedom index in Palestine. Thus, three surveys were designed, and their credibility and validity were tested. After the surveys were collected, they were coded and entered to the computer to be statistically processed using the SPSS. Below are the findings of the study depending on the sequence of indicators in the different areas.

1. The Findings of press freedom areas in Palestine Press freedom index according to the territory in 2018-2019

The score of press freedom index in Palestine, in the areas measured in 2019, amounted to 460 points, decreased by 24 points compared to 2018 when the index scored 484 points out of the grand total of points amounting to 1000. This decrease constituted 4.9% of the press freedom index. It is broken down as 492 points in the West Bank during 2018 compared to 457 points during 2019. That is a decrease by 35 points, constituting a change rate by 7.1% of the West Bank index. On the other hand, the decrease in Gaza Strip dropped from 475 points during 2018 to 466 points during 2019. That is a decrease by 9 points, constituting a change rate by 1.8% of Gaza Strip index. By this, the decrease in the index is higher in the West Bank than in Gaza Strip.

33

Study Findings

The Palestinian Center for Development & Media Freedoms (MADA), through this

study, has strived to measure press freedom in Palestine. To this end, it has developed indicators

and adopted them to measure the extent of progress and decline in the level of press freedom in

the country. These indicators are intended to measure press freedom in the West Bank, including

Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip. The level of press freedom in Palestine has been analyzed in both

geographical territories.

MADA has used the press freedom index methodology that is based on temporal

comparison between one year and another in the same geographical area, taking into account the

relevant international indicators, especially those developed by the Press House and Reporters

without Borders, and the media development indicators developed by UNESCO. The

methodology also takes into consideration what has been decided by the experts as proper for the

press freedom index in Palestine after redefining and formulating the indicators and adding a new

set of indicators of importance and weight in measuring press freedom index in Palestine. Thus,

three surveys were designed, and their credibility and validity were tested. After the surveys were

collected, they were coded and entered to the computer to be statistically processed using the

SPSS. Below are the findings of the study depending on the sequence of indicators in the different

areas.

1. The Findings of press freedom areas in Palestine Press freedom index according to the territory in 2018-2019

484 492 475460 457 466

0100200300400500600700800900

1000

Palestine West Bank Gaza Strip

2018 2019


Table No. (11): Findings of press freedom areas in Palestine 2018-2019

Area West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019

1 Legal safeguards of press freedom 415 344 438 376 406 354

2 Legal and social restrictions on press freedom 471 477 446 487 463 479

3 Operational independence of the media 569 447 559 502 565 470

4 Media outlets and diversity of content 478 435 490 479 481 455

5 Government censorship and self-censorship 543 520 465 476 515 501

6 Financing policies 459 432 440 437 457 433

7 Transparency and access to information 458 493 475 483 465 490

8 Self-regulation and protection of journalists 618 588 543 566 588 581

Total 492 457 475 466 484 460

Table No. (12): Differences in the Press freedom index in Palestine between 2018 -2019Area West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

Legal safeguards of press freedom -71 -62 -52

Legal restrictions on press freedom 6 41 16

Operational independence of the media -122 -57 -95

Media outlets and diversity of content -43 -11 -26

Government censorship and self-censorship -23 11 -14

Financing policies -27 -3 -24

Transparency and access to information 35 8 25

Self-regulation of journalists -30 23 -7

Weighted overall average -35 -9 -24


Press freedom index differences by area and territory between 2018 - 2019

The study relied on measuring eight areas that reflect press freedom, namely: Legal safeguards of press freedom, Legal restrictions on press freedom, Operational independence of the media, Media outlets and diversity of content, Government censorship and self-censorship, Financing policies, Transparency and access to information, Self-regulation and protection of journalists. The scale of each area of the above mentioned areas is based on a set of indicators used to measure the said areas. The total number of these indicators is 72. The scale is based on calculating the weight equation of each area. Compared to 2018, the 2019 findings showed that the below three indicators, out of 72 indicators, scored zero points: 1. The compliance of domestic and national legislation after the PNA signed international

treaties guaranteeing press freedom.2. There are legal provisions that criminalize government officials inciting against the

media.3. The number of journalists summoned by security or judicial services on the grounds

of their work during 2018. On the other hand, below are the indicators which scored 1000 points: 1. There are safeguards for press freedom guaranteed by the Basic Law. 2. There have been no cases in which fines were imposed on journalists for committing

publishing offences during 2018.

2. The findings of press freedom index in Palestine by each area and its indicators

2.1 Legal Safeguards of Press Freedom:-This area in this year (2019) decreased by 52 points. It fell from 406 points in 2018 to 354 points in 2019. It decreased in the West Bank by 71 points compared to 2018. It scored 344 points in 2019, compared to 415 points in the previous year.On the other hand, it decreased in Gaza Strip by 62 points. It scored 376 points in 2019 compared to 438 points in 2018. This decrease is attributed to the “taking restraining

35

Table No. (12): Differences in the Press freedom index in Palestine between 2018 -2019

Area West Bank Gaza Strip Palestine

Legal safeguards of press freedom -71 -62 -52

Legal restrictions on press freedom 6 41 16

Operational independence of the media -122 -57 -95

Media outlets and diversity of content -43 -11 -26

Government censorship and self-censorship -23 11 -14

Financing policies -27 -3 -24

Transparency and access to information 35 8 25

Self-regulation of journalists -30 23 -7

Weighted overall average -35 -9 -24

Press freedom index differences by area and territory between 2018 - 2019

The study relied on measuring eight areas that reflect press freedom, namely: Legal safeguards of press freedom, Legal restrictions on press freedom, Operational independence of the media, Media outlets and diversity of content, Government censorship and self-censorship, Financing policies, Transparency and access to information, Self-regulation and protection of journalists. The scale of each area of the above mentioned areas is based on a set of indicators used to measure the said areas. The total number of these indicators is 72. The scale is based on calculating the weight equation of each area.

-71

5

-122

-42

-23

-26

35

-30

-35

-61

41

-56

-11

11

-3

8

23

-9

-52

17

-95

-26-

14

-24

25

-7

-24

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measures by the official authority against the media, such as closure or blocking” indicator. Legal Safeguards of Press Freedom by Territory (2018-2019)

The legal safeguards area relied on 12 indicators. The relative weight of each indicator is (0.0833), with a value of 83 points per indicator. Below are the findings of these indicators. 2.1.1: There was consistency in the indicator (guarantees ensured by the Basic Law for Press Freedom) during the years 2018 and 2019. This indicator was measured based on the legal aspect of the survey and the weight of this indicator was 83 points in Palestine, where the points were complete in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The findings of the open-ended questions unanimously agreed on the availability of guarantees ensured by the Basic Law for Press freedom. The law guaranteed the freedom of opinion and expression, the freedom of establishing a media station and never close it unless under a judicial decision, the personal freedom and equality before the law. The Basic Law provides constitutional protection rules, as it guaranteed the establishment of newspapers and other media outlets and recognizes the same as a right for everyone. It also provides for the freedom of the visual, audio and written media, the freedom of printing, publishing, distributing and broadcasting, and the freedom of those working in the same, the prohibition of censorship over the media, and not permit warning, suspending or seizing or cancelling or impose restrictions on media outlets, except in accordance with the law and under a court ruling, according to Article 27 thereof. 2.1.2: There was a consensus in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip on the indicator (the lack of compliance of national legislation after the signature of the State of Palestine on international conventions guaranteeing press freedom). The institutions unanimously agreed that national legislation has not been complained after the State of Palestine signed the international conventions guaranteeing press freedom. Thus, this indicator scored zero points over the years 2018 and 2019.2.1.3: The indicator (there are legal safeguards at Palestinian tribunals that protect press

37

2. The findings of press freedom index in Palestine by each area and its indicators

2.1 Legal Safeguards of Press Freedom:- This area in this year (2019) decreased by 52 points. It fell from 406 points in 2018 to 354 points in 2019. It decreased in the West Bank by 71 points compared to 2018. It scored 344 points in 2019, compared to 415 points in the previous year. On the other hand, it decreased in Gaza Strip by 62 points. It scored 376 points in 2019 compared to 438 points in 2018. This decrease is attributed to the “taking restraining measures by the official authority against the media, such as closure or blocking” indicator.

Legal Safeguards of Press Freedom by Territory (2018-2019)

The legal safeguards area relied on 12 indicators. The relative weight of each indicator is (0.0833), with a value of 83 points per indicator. Below are the findings of these indicators.

2.1.1: There was consistency in the indicator (guarantees ensured by the Basic Law for Press Freedom) during the years 2018 and 2019. This indicator was measured based on the legal aspect of the survey and the weight of this indicator was 83 points in Palestine, where the points were complete in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The findings of the open-ended questions unanimously agreed on the availability of guarantees ensured by the Basic Law for Press freedom. The law guaranteed the freedom of opinion and expression, the freedom of establishing a media station and never close it unless under a judicial decision, the personal freedom and equality before the law. The Basic Law provides constitutional protection rules, as it guaranteed the establishment of newspapers and other media outlets and recognizes the same as a right for everyone. It also provides for the freedom of the visual, audio and written media, the freedom of printing, publishing, distributing and broadcasting, and the freedom of those working in the same, the prohibition of censorship over the media, and not permit warning, suspending or seizing or cancelling or impose restrictions on media outlets, except in accordance with the law and under a court ruling, according to Article 27 thereof.

2.1.2: There was a consensus in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip on the indicator (the lack of compliance of

national legislation after the signature of the State of Palestine on international conventions guaranteeing press freedom). The institutions unanimously agreed that national legislation has not

415344

438376406354

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1000

201820192018201920182019

Palestine Gaza Strip West Bankفلسطينقطاع غزةالضفة الغربية


freedom) scored 40 points compared to 33 points in 2018 and this increase is due to the increased value of the indicator in Gaza Strip where it scored more than 31 points in 2018 and jumped to 56 points in 2019 (especially the options, yes moderately, or yes poorly). It was found that there is unanimity that there are no certain safeguards, and there is variation in the responses in terms of legal safeguards in the Palestinian tribunals that protect press freedom in both the West Bank and Gaza, either poorly or not available.

The Availability of Legal Safeguards at Palestinian Tribunals that Protect Press Freedom by Territory 2018-2019

2.1.4: The indicator (there are legal texts that criminalize the government officials who incite against media outlets) scored 0 points and for the second year in a row there was unanimity on the lack of the same both in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.2.1.5: The indicator (there are legal texts that impose restrictions on addressing ethnic or religious or sensitive or national security-related issues such as children and gender) scored 42 points and for the second year in a row there was unanimity that indeed there are such restrictions, however limitedly. 2.1.6: The indicator (the number of journalists who have been arrested by the security or judicial authorities on the ground of their work) scored 0 points in Palestine. A rate of (10%) was deducted from each case, with a maximum of 10 cases. It was found that there is disparity in the number of journalists who have been arrested. As the number in the West Bank during 2019 amounted to (15) compared to (17) during 2018. By this, the number of points in the West Bank is (0) while in Gaza Strip it significantly increased from (6) in 2018 to (31) in 2019. Hence, the loss of this indicator reached (33) points in Gaza Strip during 2018.

38

been complained after the State of Palestine signed the international conventions guaranteeing press freedom. Thus, this indicator scored zero points over the years 2018 and 2019.

2.1.3: The indicator (there are legal safeguards at Palestinian tribunals that protect press freedom) scored

40 points compared to 33 points in 2018 and this increase is due to the increased value of the indicator in Gaza Strip where it scored more than 31 points in 2018 and jumped to 56 points in 2019 (especially the options, yes moderately, or yes poorly). It was found that there is unanimity that there are no certain safeguards, and there is variation in the responses in terms of legal safeguards in the Palestinian tribunals that protect press freedom in both the West Bank and Gaza, either poorly or not available.

The Availability of Legal Safeguards at Palestinian Tribunals that Protect Press Freedom by

Territory 2018-2019

2.1.4: The indicator (there are legal texts that criminalize the government officials who incite against media outlets) scored 0 points and for the second year in a row there was unanimity on the lack of the same both in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. 2.1.5: The indicator (there are legal texts that impose restrictions on addressing ethnic or religious or sensitive or national security-related issues such as children and gender) scored 42 points and for the second year in a row there was unanimity that indeed there are such restrictions, however limitedly. 2.1.6: The indicator (the number of journalists who have been arrested by the security or judicial authorities on the ground of their work) scored 0 points in Palestine. A rate of (10%) was deducted from each case, with a maximum of 10 cases. It was found that there is disparity in the number of journalists who have been arrested. As the number in the West Bank during 2019 amounted to (15) compared to (17) during 2018. By this, the number of points in the West Bank is (0) while in Gaza Strip it significantly increased from (6) in 2018 to (31) in 2019. Hence, the loss of this indicator reached (33) points in Gaza Strip during 2018.

The number of journalists who have been arrested by the security or judicial authorities on the ground of their work by Territory (2018-2019)

343331

56

3340

-7

3

13

23

33

43

53

63

73

83

201820192018201920182019

Palestine Gaza Strip West Bankفلسطينقطاع غزةالضفة الغربية


The number of journalists who have been arrested by the security or judicial authorities on the ground of their work by Territory (2018-2019)

2.1.7: There is still summoning of journalists in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Therefore, the indicator (the number of journalists who were summoned by security or judicial services on the grounds of their journalistic work) scored 0 points in Palestine. There is disparity in the number of journalists arrested, noticeably in Gaza Strip, where the indicator scored (25) points in 2019 compared to (20) in 2018, while in the West Bank it fell from (19) scored in 2018 to (11) in 2019. After deducting (10%) of the points for each case with a maximum of 10 cases, the number of points in the West Bank was (0), as in Gaza Strip, and thus the number of weighted points for this indicator was (0).

The number of journalists who were summoned by security or judicial services on the grounds of their journalistic work by Territory 2018-2019

39


The number of journalists who were summoned by security or judicial services on the grounds of

their journalistic work by Territory 2018-2019

2.1.8: Decrease by 3 points of the indicator (media professionals are subject to pressures by the family or the surrounding society to influence their opinion or media material they have published). It fell from 57 points scored in 2018 to 54 points scored in 2019 due to the disparity between the years 2018-2019 in the options “Yes, limitedly, and No”.

Media professionals subject to pressures by the family or the surrounding society to influence their opinion or media material they have published by Territory 2018-2019

1715

6

31

23

46

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

201820192018201920182019

فلسطينقطاع غزةالضفة الغربية

19

11

2025

3936

051015202530354045

201820192018201920182019

فلسطينقطاع غزةالضفة الغربيةWest Bank Gaza Strip Palestine


39


The number of journalists who were summoned by security or judicial services on the grounds of

their journalistic work by Territory 2018-2019


Media professionals subject to pressures by the family or the surrounding society to influence their opinion or media material they have published by Territory 2018-2019

1715

6

31

23

46

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

201820192018201920182019

فلسطينقطاع غزةالضفة الغربية

19

11

2025

3936

051015202530354045

201820192018201920182019

فلسطينقطاع غزةالضفة الغربيةWest Bank Gaza Strip Palestine




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