This study concerns the question whether the manner in which international law informed political consensus in South Africa and Namibia is of relevance to the settlement of the Israel/Palestine conflict.
First, it will examine the competing rules of international law invoked by parties in respect of apartheid South Africa and Namibia and the attainment of consensus over the legal principles that were to provide the foundation of the new political orders. Then it will address the conflicting interpretations of international law that divide Israel and Palestine. Particular attention will be paid to the legality of Jewish settlements in Palestine, the status of East Jerusalem, the legality of the wall Israel is constructing in Palestinian territory and the right of return of refugees.
The study will consider the prospects of achieving consensus on these issues in the light of the Southern African experience.
