The Palestinian Land Administration: Challenges and Pathways to Modernization

Abstract

This paper examines the intricate framework governing land ownership and surveying in Palestine. It explores the evolution of this system through the Ottoman, British, Jordanian, and contemporary Palestinian periods. The intricacies of land administration in Palestine are characterized by numerous legal, political, and technical obstacles, which are deeply rooted in a history marked by fluctuating governance and conflict. The original Ottoman registration system, which utilized descriptive books (Dafter Tabu), transitioned to the British Mandate's cadastral surveys based on the Palestine 1923 coordinate system. This process remains unfinished, with only 30% of the West Bank surveyed by 1967. The paper delves into the shift from traditional surveying techniques to modern technologies such as GNSS, LiDAR, and GIS, which provide significantly enhanced precision for cadastral mapping. A significant concern highlighted is the instability of the geodetic network, which is influenced by tectonic plate movements and urban development. This situation necessitated the creation of the new Pal-GRF2023 geodetic reference frame to ensure measurement accuracy. The research identifies key focus areas, including advancing integrated GIS-based land information systems, resolving land disputes, and safeguarding land rights. The analysis underscores the importance of employing precise methodologies to restore boundary points from historical cadastral records and to implement modern 2D and 3D surveying technologies, thereby improving the accuracy and efficiency of the national land registration system. The findings presented aim to contribute to the establishment of a robust land administration framework that promotes sustainable development and secures property rights for the future.