UNRWA Commended for Ongoing Efforts to Strengthen Management and Efficiency

A bloc of countries has expressed admiration and support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and its ongoing efforts to strengthen management and efficiency. Despite facing significant challenges, UNRWA continues to provide critical humanitarian and development assistance to 5 million Palestine refugees across the Middle East.

International Support for UNRWA’s Efforts

Representatives from Jordan, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Japan, Qatar, Kuwait, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Maldives, and Namibia commended UNRWA’s work in providing essential aid, including education, healthcare, and shelter, to those affected by the conflict. The representatives highlighted the importance of upholding international law and finding a just solution to the refugee situation.

Challenges Faced by UNRWA

UNRWA has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a severe funding shortfall that has forced it to scale back its services. Despite these difficulties, the Agency continues to provide essential aid to those affected by the conflict.

Severe funding shortfall
Scaling back of services

International Support and Commitment

Jordan’s representative: “We urge the international community to continue providing financial support to UNRWA, as it plays a crucial role in humanitarian efforts and stability in the region.”
Thailand’s representative: “UNRWA provides critical assistance to millions of people who are vulnerable and in need.”
Saudi Arabia’s delegate: “UNRWA has made remarkable achievements despite challenging circumstances, and emphasized the need for international support to improve the lives of Palestine refugees.”

Country-Specific Commitments

Several countries have provided significant financial assistance to UNRWA. These include:

Qatar: $1 billion in support for the refugee community through the Qatar Development Fund
United Arab Emirates: Significant funding over the past five years
Kuwait: Urged Member States to extend UNRWA’s mandate for three additional years

Concerns and Recommendations

Several representatives expressed concerns about allegations of misconduct by certain individuals within UNRWA. They called for better transparency, accountability, and efficiency measures for the Agency’s work.

Japan’s representative: Expressed concern about allegations of misconduct and called for better transparency, accountability, and efficiency measures
Maldives’ delegate: Expresed hope that allegations can be swiftly investigated and called for better transparency, accountability, and efficiency measures

Conclusion

The bloc of countries emphasized the importance of upholding international law and finding a just solution to the refugee situation. They also urged Member States to continue providing financial support to UNRWA to ensure that its critical services can be maintained. UNRWA’s efforts to strengthen its management and efficiency have been recognized by the international community, and it is hoped that continued support will enable the Agency to continue providing vital assistance to those in need.