United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
Why in news?
Recent developments highlight tensions between Israel and UNRWA, with the Israeli Knesset adopting amendments on December 29, 2025, to restrict the agency's operations, including revoking diplomatic immunity and blocking utilities to its facilities.
About
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is a UN program established in 1949 to provide humanitarian aid, education, healthcare, and social services to Palestinian refugees across Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and the West Bank.
Key facts of UNRWA
- Founded: 8 December 1949, began operations in May 1950
- Mandate: Provide direct relief and works programs for Palestinian refugees until a just and lasting solution is found
- Headquarters: Amman, Jordan & Gaza
- Commissioner-General: Philippe Lazzarini
- Staff: Around 30,000 employees
- Budget: Approx. US$806 million (2020)
Key Services
- Education: Operates schools serving hundreds of thousands of children.
- Healthcare: Runs clinics and hospitals providing primary care.
- Relief & Social Services: Food aid, cash assistance, and community support.
- Infrastructure & Camp Improvement: Upgrades refugee camps and facilities.
- Microfinance: Provides small loans to support livelihoods.
- Emergency Response: Humanitarian aid during conflicts and crises.
Current Challenges
- Political Pressure: Israel recently passed legislation stripping UNRWA of diplomatic immunity and cutting utilities to its facilities, raising concerns about access to education and healthcare.
- Funding Shortfalls: UNRWA relies heavily on voluntary contributions, often facing budget crises.
- Humanitarian Needs: Millions of refugees depend on UNRWA for survival, especially amid ongoing conflicts.
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