The Carter Center Calls for Concrete Steps Toward Credible Palestinian National Elections

ATLANTA (Oct. 15, 2026) — The Carter Center regrets the decision to postpone the Nov. 28 Palestinian Legislative Council elections to Sept. 11, 2027. For two decades, electoral delays and various impediments have prevented Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories from choosing their elected representatives, the most fundamental function of democracy.

The elections are critical to reconstituting the Palestinian legislative branch, renewing public trust in national institutions, and establishing the political foundation of a future Palestinian state.

Looking forward, immediate steps should be taken to:

• Ensure that any national dialogue remains inclusive and credible by engaging political parties, civil society, women, youth, community leaders, and citizens in a concrete roadmap for electoral preparations.
• Broaden representation within Palestinian governing bodies, including the Palestinian National Council, and the potential expansion of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) to include political factions that commit to international agreements and principles.
• Ensure an environment conducive to competitive, inclusive, and genuine democratic elections by protecting Palestinians’ freedoms of assembly and expression, and personal security.
• Advance concrete preparations for legislative and presidential elections, including renewed voter registration in Gaza, so that all eligible Palestinian voters can participate.

Israel, as the occupying power, has distinct responsibilities under international law across the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem. It should take immediate steps to:

• Halt military attacks in Gaza and withdraw its troops to allow for a proper security environment. In the West Bank, take steps to reduce settlement expansion and settler violence.
• Address restrictions that impede the administration of elections, political activities, and the fundamental freedoms of movement, assembly, and association.
• Allow access for the staff and materials needed for electoral preparations in Gaza.

In addition, the international community should use its diplomatic influence to help ensure Palestinians have the chance to vote in safety, without the fear of violence. It should call on Israel to stop settler violence, reverse the proliferation of checkpoints, and withdraw its military from Gaza. It should also address obstacles to voter participation and secure firm commitments from all sides to accept genuine election results.

The 2027 elections will be a historic opportunity to begin the reintegration of the West Bank and Gaza under a single governing authority – but only if the conditions are in place for the people of Palestine to fully and peacefully exercise their democratic rights.

Contact: media@cartercenter.org