UNRWA Essential for Palestinian Refugees in Gaza

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has long been a cornerstone of life for millions of Palestinian refugees, providing education, health care, and social services across the West Bank, Gaza Strip, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. Established in 1949, the agency now serves more than 5.6 million registered refugees, many of whom have lived in displacement for generations. Its schools, clinics, and food assistance programmes are integral to daily life for those who rely on its support to meet basic needs.

In Gaza, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated sharply in the wake of the recent conflict, which has been described by some observers as a “genocide” due to the extensive civilian casualties and widespread destruction. UNRWA’s operations in the enclave—running 12 schools, 10 health centres, and a network of food distribution points—have become essential for the surviving population. The agency’s funding, which comes from voluntary contributions by UN member states, has been under severe pressure; recent cuts in donor support threaten to halt services that many residents consider indispensable for survival and recovery.

Without UNRWA, Gaza’s already strained infrastructure would face a critical gap in essential services. The agency’s role in providing medical care, education, and emergency assistance is irreplaceable under current conditions, and the loss of its support would likely exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. The international community’s continued engagement and financial backing remain crucial to maintaining the agency’s capacity to serve the displaced population in Gaza and beyond.