Sara Roy

Sara Roy is a scholar known for her work on the Palestinian economy and society. She is a senior research scholar at the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at Harvard University.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Failing Peace

    Israel/Palestine and the Failure of the Oslo Accord

    This compelling work delves into the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, offering a deeply personal and analytical perspective on the socio-economic and political challenges faced by Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Through a blend of historical context and firsthand observations, the narrative highlights the detrimental impact of prolonged occupation and the elusive quest for peace. The author critiques international policies and underscores the resilience of the Palestinian people, advocating for a more equitable and sustainable resolution to the enduring conflict.

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  2. 2. Hamas And Civil Society In Gaza

    Engaging the Islamist Social Sector

    This insightful work delves into the complex interplay between political movements and civil society in Gaza, focusing on the role of Hamas in shaping social, economic, and political landscapes. It examines how Hamas has evolved from a militant organization into a significant social force, influencing various aspects of daily life through its extensive network of social services and community engagement. The book provides a nuanced analysis of the challenges and dynamics faced by civil society under occupation, highlighting the intricate relationship between governance, resistance, and grassroots initiatives in a region marked by conflict and hardship.

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  3. 3. The Gaza Strip

    The Political Economy of De-Development

    A detailed political-economic study that traces how prolonged military occupation, border closures, resource control, and intermittent military operations have systematically eroded Gaza’s productive capacity and social infrastructure, producing widespread unemployment, poverty, and dependence on aid. Using economic data, household studies, and historical context, it argues that policy decisions—land expropriation, restrictions on movement, and damage to industry and agriculture—constitute a process of de-development rather than mere underdevelopment. The book links these material harms to broader political objectives and warns that humanitarian assistance alone cannot reverse the structural destruction without changes in governance, access to resources, and restoration of economic autonomy.