In a preparatory step to carry out a research study on the siege and its psycho-social impacts on the population in the Gaza Strip, GCMHP's Research and Training Department conducted a roundtable discussion entitled "Siege and its Psycho-social Impacts on Gaza Population". Representatives from Palestinian GOs, NGOs, and international organizations working in the Gaza Strip participated in session, including: Palestinian Center for Democracy and Conflict Resolution, Al-Quds Open University, Al-Aqsa University, UNICEF, Palestinian Center for Community Training and Crisis Resolving, Psychiatric Hospital, Ministry of Education, Military Medical Services, and UNIFAM. The session took place in GCMHP's Gaza Community Center.

During the session, many topics were discussed such as the impacts of the siege on health, education, economy and mental health of the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip. Furthermore, the children and women issues were highlighted during the discussion . Special focus was on the effects of siege on the Palestinian prisoners' conditions and their families' after the last decision that deprived them from family-visits. In addition, the attendants discussed the current changes of social values, family relations, and factional disputes in the Palestinian community as a result of Israeli siege.

At the end, the participants came to a conclusion that the international community and concerned parties should exert all efforts and pressure Israel so as to end the siege imposed on the Gaza Strip. Dr. Abdel Aziz Thabet, chairman of the session, concluded the discussion and appreciated the attendants for their contribution, highlighting the role of international community and local institutions in minimizing the impacts of siege on the Palestinian populations.