On Tuesday, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric reaffirmed that the United Nations has no intention of modifying the mandate granted to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) by the General Assembly.
Dujarric was responding to journalists’ questions following the announcement of a strategic assessment of the agency, led by British diplomat Ian Martin.
“The UNRWA is not being targeted, but it operates in a unique environment, facing financial pressures and security challenges that we highlight daily—whether in Gaza or the occupied West Bank—not to mention the agency’s essential work throughout conflicts in Syria and Lebanon,” Dujarric stated.
He emphasized, “We will not question UNRWA’s mandate. We will see how UNRWA can better operate and better serve the communities that rely on it.”
The United Nations aims to ensure that UNRWA, despite operating in an increasingly complex environment, can continue to provide critical support to the Palestinian refugees and communities it serves, ensuring that they receive aid from an agency capable of functioning effectively amid these challenges.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) was established in 1949 to provide humanitarian assistance to Palestinian refugees.
Since its inception, UNRWA has played a crucial role in supporting millions of displaced individuals across Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. The agency offers essential services such as education, healthcare, social services, and emergency aid, ensuring that Palestinian refugees receive the support they need to rebuild their lives.
One of UNRWA’s most significant contributions is its education program, which provides schooling to hundreds of thousands of Palestinian children. By offering quality education, the agency helps young refugees develop skills and knowledge that empower them to pursue better opportunities. Additionally, UNRWA operates healthcare facilities, ensuring access to medical services for refugees who might otherwise struggle to receive proper care. These efforts are vital in maintaining the well-being of displaced communities.
Despite its importance, UNRWA has faced funding challenges and political pressures, particularly in recent years.
The agency relies heavily on voluntary contributions from UN member states, and financial instability threatens its ability to continue providing essential services.
Nevertheless, UNRWA remains a lifeline for millions of Palestinian refugees, offering hope and stability in the face of ongoing hardships. Its work underscores the necessity of international humanitarian efforts in addressing displacement and ensuring dignity for affected populations.
