Assessing Impact of UNRWA

The United Nations appointed British human rights activist Ian Martin to conduct a strategic review of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This review aims to evaluate the agency’s effectiveness amidst ongoing political, financial, and security challenges. Israel has restricted UNRWA’s operations, yet the agency continues to provide vital aid to Palestinian refugees in Gaza and surrounding regions.

Background of UNRWA

UNRWA was established in 1949 by the UN General Assembly. Its primary mission is to support Palestinian refugees who fled during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war and their descendants. The agency serves around 5.5 million Palestinians, offering essential services such as healthcare and education in Gaza, the West Bank, and neighbouring countries.

Current Challenges

UNRWA faces challenges due to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel has prohibited the agency from operating within its territory. Additionally, humanitarian aid has been cut off since March 2025, exacerbating the situation for over two million people in Gaza. The agency’s operations have been further complicated by allegations of staff involvement in militant activities.

Impact of the Review

Ian Martin’s review is not intended to change UNRWA’s mandate but to improve its operational effectiveness. The assessment will consider the risks and consequences of UNRWA’s activities for Palestinian refugees. It aims to identify ways the agency can enhance its service delivery under current constraints.

Israel’s Position

Israel has expressed a desire for other UN agencies to take over UNRWA’s functions. However, UN officials, including Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, argue that no other agency can fulfil UNRWA’s specific role. This position marks the unique challenges faced by Palestinian refugees and the necessity of UNRWA’s continued existence.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has escalated . Reports indicate that over 51,000 Palestinians have died due to military actions following the October 7 attacks. The blockade has led to severe shortages of food, medical supplies, and basic necessities. UNRWA’s Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini has described the situation as collective punishment, urging Israel to lift the siege.

Future Directions

The findings of the review, expected in mid-June 2025, will be crucial for shaping UNRWA’s future operations. The agency must navigate a complex environment while striving to meet the needs of Palestinian refugees. The review will also provide vital information about how UNRWA can adapt to the changing political landscape.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of international organisations in addressing humanitarian crises.
2. Critically discuss the implications of humanitarian aid being used as a bargaining chip in conflicts.
3. Point out the historical significance of UNRWA in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
4. Estimate the impact of political constraints on the effectiveness of humanitarian agencies in conflict zones.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of international organisations in addressing humanitarian crises.

1. International organizations, like the UN, facilitate coordination among countries to provide timely humanitarian assistance.
2. They establish protocols and standards for aid delivery, ensuring that assistance reaches those in need effectively.
3. Organizations often mobilize resources and funding to support relief efforts in crisis situations.
4. They advocate for the protection of human rights and the well-being of affected populations during conflicts.
5. International bodies can also mediate between conflicting parties to establish ceasefires or humanitarian corridors.

2. Critically discuss the implications of humanitarian aid being used as a bargaining chip in conflicts.

1. Using humanitarian aid as leverage can exacerbate suffering and prolong conflicts, as aid becomes contingent on political negotiations.
2. This practice undermines the neutrality and impartiality of humanitarian organizations, affecting their credibility.
3. It can lead to selective distribution of aid, favoring certain groups over others and creating further divisions.
4. Humanitarian access may be restricted, making it difficult for agencies to operate effectively and deliver aid where it is needed most.
5. Long-term dependency on aid can arise, hindering the development of sustainable solutions for affected populations.

3. Point out the historical significance of UNRWA in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

1. UNRWA was established in 1949 to address the immediate needs of Palestinian refugees after the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
2. The agency has played important role in providing education, healthcare, and social services to millions of Palestinian refugees.
3. UNRWA’s existence marks the ongoing displacement and unresolved status of Palestinian refugees in the broader context of the conflict.
4. It serves as a reminder of the international community’s responsibility towards displaced populations and the need for a lasting political solution.
5. The agency’s operations have been impacted by political tensions, illustrating the intersection of humanitarian needs and geopolitical issues.

4. Estimate the impact of political constraints on the effectiveness of humanitarian agencies in conflict zones.

1. Political constraints can limit access to affected populations, preventing timely delivery of aid and essential services.
2. Agencies may face bureaucratic hurdles, requiring negotiations with multiple stakeholders, which can delay assistance.
3. Security risks can arise from operating in conflict zones, affecting staff safety and operational capacity.
4. Political agendas may influence the distribution of aid, leading to inequitable access for vulnerable groups.
5. Long-term humanitarian strategies may be undermined by shifting political landscapes, complicating recovery efforts.