Reform, Integrity and Dialogue: Palestine Strengthens Communication with the Private Sector to Advance Customs Modernization

As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional integrity and modernize its procedures, the Customs Administration of Palestine, with support from the World Customs Organization (WCO) Anti-Corruption and Integrity Promotion (A-CIP) Programme, held a virtual workshop from 15 to 19 June 2025 focused on stakeholder communication and its vital role in improving customs processes.

This activity falls within the framework of cooperation between the WCO and Palestine Customs under the agreement signed with the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad). The workshop aimed to equip Palestinian Customs officials with practical and strategic tools to engage effectively with the private sector and other key stakeholders. Effective communication was emphasized as a cornerstone of modern customs operations-essential for the success of procedural reforms and a prerequisite for any meaningful fight against corruption.

Over five days of interactive training, fifteen senior officials explored a range of communication approaches tailored to various stakeholders and scenarios. Through case studies, targeted discussions, and regional examples, participants examined how to select and apply the most appropriate methods of engagement depending on the context. The sessions were led by WCO-accredited integrity development experts from the Customs administrations of Tunisia and Libya, who shared their hands-on experience in building productive and trust-based partnerships with the private sector.

A central element of the workshop was the analysis of results from the second iteration of the Customs Integrity Perception Survey (CIPS), conducted in early 2025. The survey provided a quantitative assessment of integrity perceptions among both customs officials and private sector stakeholders, serving as a foundation for identifying risks and areas for improvement in stakeholder engagement.

Participants also explored regional best practices, including initiatives related to the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme and the Next Generation Network (NGN), which provided valuable insights into strengthening mutual trust and cooperation.

This workshop represents a significant step in Palestine's Customs modernization journey, positioning effective communication as a strategic lever for institutional integrity and sustainable operational transformation.

For more information, please contact: integrity@wcoomd.org.