The educational mission of Birzeit University includes promoting respect for democratic values, tolerence of diversity, and cooperation. Every year, the 51-seat student council parliament is chosen in open, democratic elections. In the years before the existence of the Palestinian Authority and national Palestinian elections, Birzeit's elections - involving students originating from all areas of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, and student mirrors of the main national political factions - was seen as the best barometer of Palestinian political opinion. This website is the first time that Birzeit's student elections have been covered daily on the Web. Links have been provided to offer a detailed background to one of the most exciting events in the academic year.

BACKGROUND

• Electoral System and voting process of Birzeit University Student Council Elections--Articles from Birzeit English Newsletter No. 26, Aug 1995
  
• A look back at previous elections at Birzeit University.

1997 ELECTIONS

• An introduction to the 1997 student blocs at Birzeit University
  
• News and photos from the 1997 campaign
  
• Highlights of the 8 April pre-election debate
  
• Results of the 1997 Election--posted at 8:57 p.m., 9 April 1997
  
• Commentary on the 1997 Election

1998 ELECTIONS

• Click here for 1998 coverage.