The Institute of Law Organises a Workshop on Corruption Crimes between Law and Practice
The workshop included a presentation and discussion of focused papers on investigation of corruption crimes, electronic evidence and asset recovery.
Having welcomed the audience, Dr. Jamil Salem, IoL Director, asserted that the workshop “is a product of joint activity between the IoL and PACC. It is a genuine illustration of partnership and coherence between national institutions.” Dr. Salem noted that that the workshop was a springboard for further academic activity and research on anti-corruption action.
Mr. Rafiq an Natsheh, PACC Chairman, highlighted the need for a clear, nation-wide approach to combating corruption. Cooperation with Palestinian universities and institutions is of vital importance to promote integrity and transparency. Mr. Natsheh proposed that the current Palestinian legal framework be reviewed, amended, and upgraded. If necessary, new laws should be proposed. Mr. Natsheh also confirmed that the PACC is a national institution: “The PACC does not represent a particular party or faction.”
Dr. Samiya Hulileh, Birzeit University Vice President for Community Affairs, noted the significance of the focused themes addressed by the research papers on investigation techniques, asset recovery, and electronic evidence. This research output further promotes Birzeit University’s vision and mission of effective and efficient research and professional activity.
Three research papers were presented in the workshop. The first workshop session addressed Investigation of Corruption Crimes. Presenting on Preliminary Investigation of Corruption Crimes, Mr. Mustafa Farhan, Anti-Corruption Prosecutor, elaborated on respective penal procedure and delegation of judicial powers. Ms. Ala’ an Naqeeb, Head of the PACC Legislation Department, made a presentation on searches and investigation into corruption cases.
Electronic Evidence was introduced in the second workshop session. Mr. Ahmed Hamu, Director of the IoL IT Department, provided a review of technical aspects of and need to establish electronic evidence. Mr. Ala’ Awwad, Anti-Corruption Prosecutor, highlighted the specificity of electronic evidence in corruption crimes and presented applicable validation techniques. Ms. Wala’ Abdullah, Head of the PACC Legal Affairs Department, elaborated on the legal nature of electronic evidence, exploring the legislature’s position towards electronic evidence.
The third session of the workshop included two presentations on the Regional and International Framework for Asset Recovery. Ms. Narmeen Marmash, IoL researcher, presented on the international and regional regulation and mechanism of asset recovery, highlighting relevant international experiences. Mr. Mazen al Lahham, Head of the PACC Legal Affairs Department, cast light on the Palestinian experience in asset recovery and the role played by courts and Public Prosecution. Mr. Lahham’s presentation was informed by relevant regional experiences.
In the context of the Anti-Corruption Capacity Building Assistance in Palestine Project, these research papers are an output of a joint research activity launched by the PACC, IoL, High Judicial Council, and Public Prosecution.
