Background
UNRWA has been struggling to make ends meet as the conflict in the Middle East continues to wreak havoc on the agency’s finances. In the midst of this crisis, Canada and Sweden have taken major steps to help alleviate the humanitarian crisis by re-implementing aid payments for UNRWA.
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The Suspension of Funds
Sweden, as well as Canada, cut off UNRWA funding after Israel accused 12 of its staff of taking part in a 7 October Hamas assault that ignited the Gaza war. The accusations raised questions about UNRWA’s accountability and transparency.
Assurances and Extra Checks
On a positive note, Sweden and Canada have agreed to resume financing. Here are the highlights:
Initial Disbursement
United Nations Relief and Works (UNRWA) will receive an initial contribution of $20 million from Sweden and Canada. This contribution is intended to support UNRWA’s vital work in delivering humanitarian aid to Palestinian refugees.
Strengthened Accountability
UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) has agreed to additional accountability measures, such as independent audits, enhanced internal oversight, and additional controls on staff.
Canada’s Commitment
Canada’s Secretary-General for International Development Ahmed Hussen said in a statement that Canada “acknowledges and takes seriously the allegations made against some of the staff members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).” He added that the decision to reinstate funding “reflects our determination to respond to the pressing needs of Palestinian civilians.”
European Commission’s Support
The European Commission also declared its contribution of €50 million to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) earlier this month, underlining the need for international co-operation in tackling humanitarian crises.
The Ongoing Crisis
The Israeli-Hamas conflict has had a devastating impact on the civilian population. The 7 October assault by Hamas killed about 1,160 people, mostly civilians. The Israeli retaliation operations in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip killed more than 30,800 people, mostly women and children.
UNRWA’s Role
United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) plays a vital role in the delivery of essential services in the Gaza Strip. UNRWA has approximately 30,000 staff members in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria (13,000 in the Gaza Strip). UNRWA is at the forefront of humanitarian relief efforts.
Conclusion
The resumption of funding by Sweden and Canada shows their solidarity with the people who are most in need during this time. As the situation changes, international cooperation will continue to be essential in addressing the immediate needs of the Palestinian refugees.
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