A recent visit to the UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees) representative in New York painted a sobering picture of the agency’s current situation. With global political shifts and increasing financial strain, the challenges are mounting, yet UNRWA remains a key player in regional stability and humanitarian support.
More than just humanitarian aid
UNRWA doesn’t see itself solely as a humanitarian agency; it’s also an essential actor in the political transition for Palestine. Its role as a direct service provider in education and primary healthcare is critical as both sectors are not only humanitarian priorities but also crucial for long-term stability. Education, in particular, is seen as a tool to prevent recruitment into armed groups, offering children a vital alternative for their future.
It’s important to place UNRWA within the broader UN framework. Beyond its direct services, the agency also contributes to global efforts like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, this role is becoming harder to maintain under growing political and financial pressure.
A shrinking pool of donors
Even before the upcoming U.S. elections, there was little hope that American funding for UNRWA would return. While UNRWA’s role in maintaining security and stability in the region is widely acknowledged, political decisions have led to its financial woes.
Other countries are scaling down their contributions, and some, like Sweden—once a major supporter—have cut funding entirely due to shifts in government policy. It’s easy to imagine that other countries may follow suit as more conservative forces gain power in elections worldwide.
There are still some bright spots: Zimbabwe, for example, has recently begun contributing. However, new and increased funding from a few countries won’t be enough to fill the widening gap.
Facing increasing restrictions
Perhaps the most alarming development is the legal and logistical pressure from Israel. Back in October 2024, the Israeli Knesset passed a bill banning UNRWA from operating in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. This context has forced UNRWA to vacate some of its compounds in the Occupied Territories. The Israeli government’s “no contact” policy has made coordination impossible, affecting UNRWA’s ability to work with COGAT (the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories). This lack of coordination further complicates efforts to provide essential services and ensure the safety of its staff.
UNRWA has faced a long-running campaign of allegations, making the situation for its staff increasingly risky. Since the Colonna report, the agency has been providing monthly updates to Israel, taking all accusations seriously. Despite this, the campaign against UNRWA remains strong, affecting its credibility and operational capacity.
A critical moment for UNRWA
Even if UNRWA were to be dismantled, Palestinian refugees would still retain their rights under international law. UN General Assembly Resolution 194 guarantees these rights, meaning that the international community would still have a responsibility to address the needs of Palestinian refugees, regardless of UNRWA’s fate.
The future of UNRWA remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: its work is more vital than ever. Without stable funding and political backing, the agency’s ability to provide essential services will continue to be threatened. Whether or not the world steps up to support UNRWA will have lasting consequences—not just for Palestinian refugees, but for regional stability as a whole.
Top photo: Mohammed Yousif Azaiza, GISHA.ORG
