The peace process may be edging slowly forward, but, for the Israelis, a major obstruction to peace remains in the continuing presence of Yasser Arafat. Bowing to American pressure, Arafat has announced elections early in 2003. But what chance is there of a new leadership emerging which might fit US credentials? It’s difficult for Palestinians to be optimistic at the moment; they’re living under Israeli occupation, and the government which was meant to lead them to independence lies in ruins. But despite this, there are some Palestinians who believe they now have an historic opportunity to create a genuine democracy.

Produced by ABC Australia