Why Scapegoating UNRWA Must Stop

The report authored by Al-Shabaka examines the precarious position of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine (UNRWA) amid escalating political and financial pressures, particularly considering recent funding cuts from key donors such as the US, Germany, and the UK. This defunding is framed within a broader context of Israeli allegations against UNRWA and reflects an ongoing strategy to undermine the agency, which is crucial for the welfare of over 5.9 million Palestinian refugees. The report details the historical roots of Palestinian displacement and emphasises that UNRWA serves as the last international commitment to the right of return for these refugees.

Al-Shabaka warns that the dismantling of UNRWA during an active humanitarian crisis not only breaches legal obligations under international law but also serves to further Israel's agenda to erase the Palestinian refugee issue. The report calls for immediate reinstatement of funding, reforms to ensure sustainable financial support for UNRWA, and independent investigations into claims made against the agency, stressing the urgent need to preserve the vital humanitarian assistance that UNRWA provides, especially in Gaza.