ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the origins of the Palestinian refugee problem in the war of 1948 and the dimensions of the problem today. It then presents the sharply differing perspectives of the two sides on the causes of the problem and its solutions, and shows why the principle of the right of return is central to the Palestinian narrative and perceived as a critical threat to the Israeli narrative. This analysis helps to define the limits within which a negotiated solution must be forged. Creative negotiations must develop a formula that respects these limits and at the same time addresses the refugee problem in all its dimensions in order to bring finality to the issue. The chapter concludes with suggestions for the provisions of such an agreement.
