Uncovering the Do’s and Don’ts for Volunteers and Interns in Palestine

Interested in Volunteering or ‌Interning ‌in Palestine? Here’s What You Need to Know

Are you ‌considering volunteering or interning ​in ‍Palestine? Do you want to understand the dos and⁢ don’ts once you arrive? ‍When​ you become an intern or volunteer at the Palestinian Center in Palestine, you will enjoy a lot of freedom. However, it’s essential to be ‍aware of ‌the cultural ​norms, both spoken and unspoken, that foreigners must adhere to while living in an Arab country like Palestine. These guidelines ​differ for men and women and⁤ are‌ also influenced by the housing arrangements provided⁣ by the Palestinian Center.

Living Arrangements

Let’s start by discussing the basic rules for‍ living in the accommodations offered by‌ the⁣ Palestinian Center. Male volunteers and interns are typically housed in​ an ​apartment-style dormitory⁢ with ‌other ⁣male volunteers. On the other hand, female volunteers stay with host families located near⁢ the center.

Male Volunteers & Interns

Male volunteers and interns usually share ​an apartment-style dormitory affiliated ​with the center. This setup is‍ akin to staying ⁣in a hostel ⁣or a university dormitory, with two bedrooms containing bunk beds, two bathrooms, a kitchen, a living/dining area, a laundry space, and ⁢a balcony for drying clothes.

Residents of the male dorm must adhere to specific rules, such as prohibiting women from ​entering the dorm‍ and refraining from ⁣alcohol consumption on the premises. Failure to comply with these rules may lead to​ contract termination. Additionally, residents ​are expected to maintain cleanliness‌ by‌ performing weekly tasks like garbage ‌disposal, floor ⁢cleaning, kitchen tidying, and bathroom cleaning. While men can request a‍ homestay,‌ such requests are usually not accommodated due to cultural differences.

Female⁣ Volunteers⁢ & Interns

Female volunteers ​and ⁢interns⁢ are placed in home-stays with local‌ Palestinian families. Accommodations and household rules vary based on the family. However,​ there are ‍common ‌expectations, such as dressing modestly, refraining from alcohol consumption, and​ respecting curfew ⁤hours.

It’s important to act respectfully ‌and​ seek permission before inviting male⁣ friends over. ‍Returning home at a reasonable hour ⁢is customary, considering the cultural norms⁢ in a city like ​Hebron.

Political Engagement

While political tensions are prevalent in the West Bank, volunteers and interns are prohibited from participating in political activities or conducting political​ surveys at the Center. Seeking approval⁢ from ⁣the Palestinian ⁣Center administration is mandatory⁢ before engaging in ⁣any research activities. Violations may lead to legal consequences.

Observing local demonstrations is ‍allowed, but⁣ engaging in political activism, even outside the center, ⁣is discouraged due to potential⁤ legal issues with Israeli authorities.

Cultural Etiquette

Living in the West Bank requires an understanding of​ cultural ⁤customs. In conservative ⁢cities like Hebron, dressing modestly and avoiding alcohol consumption are essential. Public displays of affection and inappropriate attire are frowned upon. Respectful behavior, such ‌as⁤ refraining​ from physical ⁤contact unless⁢ initiated by the other person, is crucial.

Cities like Ramallah and Bethlehem have more Westernized customs due ‍to their Christian-Palestinian populations. While alcohol ‌consumption may be permissible in certain establishments, it’s advisable to maintain a ‌level of decorum to avoid any misunderstandings.

Conclusion

By adhering to these guidelines and respecting‌ Palestinian cultural norms, your volunteering or internship experience at the Palestinian Center ⁤in Hebron will be ⁤enriching and fulfilling!