The Effectiveness of Palestinian Customs Policies and Procedures in Addressing the Phenomenon of Cross-Border Smuggling: Al-Karama Crossing as a Model

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the role of the Palestinian Customs Department in reducing smuggling through the Al-Karama Crossing. To answer the main research question: What is the role of the Palestinian Customs Department in reducing smuggling through the Al-Karama Crossing? the study employed the descriptive correlational research method. Within this framework, the researcher decided to use the quantitative approach as it best serves the objectives of the study. Accordingly, a questionnaire consisting of 41 items was used as the primary tool for data collection. This tool was administered to a sample of employees working in the Palestinian Customs Department, selected through stratified random sampling. The findings of the study revealed a high level of response regarding the role of the Palestinian Customs Department in reducing smuggling through the Al-Karama Crossing at the overall level, as well as a high level of response across all four domains. The study also showed a statistically significant positive correlation between the role of Palestinian customs and the reduction of customs smuggling at the Al-Karama Crossing. Based on these findings, the researcher recommended several measures, most notably: the necessity of providing sufficient material resources, paying greater attention to the human workforce, improving relevant laws, and conducting further studies on this subject.