Grave situation for Palestine refugees
News story | Date: 26/01/2023 | Last updated: 30/01/2023 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is in an extremely difficult financial situation due to a decrease in support from donors, high population growth and a steep rise in prices for food and energy. This was the main topic of discussion when Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt met UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini today.
‘I am deeply concerned about UNRWA’s financial situation. Both the organisation itself and individual refugee families are being hit hard by the sharp increase in prices for food and energy,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt.
UNRWA is charged with ensuring that the rights of Palestine refugees are upheld and their fundamental needs, such as food, education and health services, are met. UNRWA was given its mandate by the UN General Assembly, and provides basic services to Palestine refugees living in the West Bank, Gaza, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. The agency is in need of increased and predictable support. In light of this, Norway entered into a four-year agreement with UNRWA last year on the provision of a total of NOK 1.1 billion in funding. In 2022, Norway provided NOK 297 million in support for UNRWA’s efforts.
‘I’m very grateful to Norway for setting such an example of good donorship and being a strong partner of UNRWA. Norway's reliable, sustainable, and flexible support helps the Agency cope with financial challenges. I am looking forward to further deepening our strong partnership, which enables UNRWA to provide education to half a million children, health services, and humanitarian aid to Palestine refugees, while contributing to regional stability,’ said Mr Lazzarini.
‘Ensuring that UNRWA has enough funding to provide education, food and health services is important for stability in the Middle East. Norway will continue to be a strong supporter of UNRWA, and we will disburse this year’s allocation as soon as possible. We will also continue efforts to mobilise funding from other donors,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.