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Source: http://opinionjournal.com/editorial/feature.html?id=110006143
Our Test for Abu Mazen
(Wall Street Journal) Natan Sharansky - Oslo failed because it was based on the premise that a strong dictator would make a strong peace. If Abu Mazen is a willing partner in this effort, his government should receive legitimacy, financial aid, territory, and support for statehood. But if he is unwilling to do so, all support for his regime should be withheld. The Free World should focus on four areas: Dissent. Under Arafat, the only freedom of speech or press was the freedom to criticize Israel. Abu Mazen must understand that the days of crushing democratic dissent are over. If Palestinian democrats know that the Free World will not allow the PA to act toward them with impunity, then an increasing number of democratic voices will be heard. Education and Incitement. In any society, what is taught in public schools and broadcast on public airwaves is a good indication of the values that are being inculcated in its people. PA-run schools and the PA-controlled media have been used to poison a generation of Palestinians against Jews and Israel. The Free World must demand that this end immediately. Refugee Camps. The Free World should express its willingness to fund a program that provides decent housing for those living in the camps. A PA leadership that rejects such a plan is not interested in the welfare of its own people and hence not a partner for peace. Economic Independence. In a fear society, people are cogs of the regime. That is why one of the anchors of a free society is a middle class not dependent on government largess.