A Gaza-based refugee committee has expressed deep concern over UNRWA restructuring, citing potential threats to essential services and job security for Palestinian refugees.

The Joint Refugee Committee in the Gaza Strip issued a warning Friday regarding recent staff terminations and program cuts within the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). The committee stated that these measures, which impact the agency’s Microfinance and Development Department, threaten UNRWA's ability to fulfill its mandate. Officials urged the agency to halt reductions and provide transparency regarding its restructuring plans.

Concerns Over Service Reductions

The committee emphasized that any cuts to services in Gaza are occurring at a time when the need for education, healthcare, relief, and protection is increasing. They argued that the agency's financial challenges should not be addressed by compromising the rights of refugees or the job security of employees. The committee called for the retention of qualified personnel and urged donor countries to provide sustainable funding to ensure the agency can continue its operations.

Mandate and Future Operations

The committee highlighted that UNRWA’s mandate is linked to the Palestinian refugee issue and noted that the UN General Assembly has extended the agency's mandate until June 30, 2029. They requested that UNRWA publicly disclose its restructuring criteria and involve representatives of employees and refugees in future decision-making processes. The committee maintained that support for UNRWA remains a commitment to the agency's international mandate until a lasting solution for refugees is reached.