Palestinians most concerned about economic future

A poll conducted by the Palestinian Center for Public Opinion has found that a majority of Palestinians are most concerned about their jobs and financial status, and support opposition to proposed PA tax reforms currently on hold after widespread outcry. The poll, conducted by Dr. Nabil Kukali between Jan. 22 and Feb. 4, shows 54.7 percent of Palestinians currently fear the survival of their family during economic hard times in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Jobs and money were the main concern of 39.6 percent who took part in the survey, followed by 23.7 percent fearing the future and 22.4 percent concerned with security. A private sector call for the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority to revoke a plan to extend taxes to cover a $1.1 million deficit in public account was supported by 64.7 percent. Overall, 38.3 percent view Palestine's economic situation as bad, with 35.8 percent saying the economy was medium, and 25.4 percent that it was good. A majority of Palestinians feel pessimistic about the future, at 56.3 percent. The string of popular protests sweeping through the Arab world are likely to have a negative impact on the Palestinian cause, 65.1 percent believe. The poll covered a random sample of 1151 Palestinians living in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip.