DW Akademie in the Palestinian territories

Young Palestinians have greatly benefitted from the ongoing digital transformation, with social media offering them perspectives go beyond social and geographical borders. However, there can also be risks. 

Palestinian and Israeli state authorities control the digital space, increasing the pressure on digital rights. As a result, people’s careless activities online can lead to their downfall in the real world. Many young Palestinians have been arrested for their postings and messages or subject to heavy fines. 

Women are particularly affected by negative aspects of digital communication, and so are young people and those who voice criticism. Although social media is the primary information source for approximately half of the young population, many aren't aware of how to use the media critically and are thus vulnerable to misinformation. As violence spreads, moderate civil society organizations are increasingly concerned about "shrinking spaces" – fewer spaces where they can operate safely. 

Our activities

On the Westbank, DW Akademie supports civil society organizations in strengthening media and information literacy (MIL), with a focus on digital security, privacy and combating gender-based violence.

Download our latest evaluation report here.

Having established MIL as part of the curriculum at Palestinian schools, the youth organization PYALARA, a DW Akademie partner, is now developing an interactive MIL adventure center – a unique education and training venue that combines games with media education, and is designed for children, young people, students and teachers.  

Funding: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)

Program Director: Heike Thee 

Location: Jaba'

Local partner: Palestinian Youth Association for Leadership and Rights Activation (PYALARA)

Focus: Civic participation, Media and Information Literacy (MIL), digital security