Since October 2023, the Gaza war has caused major suffering and a complete breakdown of vital security and justice services. Amidst this turmoil, the demand for such services has drastically evolved.

Drawing on interviews with political representatives, security officials, justice sector personnel, and community members, this report offers a comprehensive field-based analysis of the shifting landscape of security governance in Gaza, examining how existing institutions have adapted in order to meet urgent needs, and how new actors have emerged in response to the crisis.

It highlights in detail the institutional degradation, emergency adaptations, and the rise of informal governance structures, such as community-led initiatives.

As an important update to DCAF’s previous “Comprehensive Reference Guide to the Palestinian Security and Justice Sectors”, this research serves as a crucial resource for national, regional, and international stakeholders involved in post-war security and justice planning. It provides a foundation for designing sustainable security governance strategies in Gaza’s evolving landscape.

As part of its ongoing work, DCAF  will continue to produce in-depth assessments on security and justice dynamics in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, ensuring that decision-makers and practitioners have the necessary knowledge to respond to current challenges and shape future governance frameworks.