Policy Briefing

Established in 1949 as a temporary mechanism to address the immediate needs of displaced Palestinians following the Arab-Israeli conflict, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Arab-Palestinian Palestinians in the Near East (UNRWA) has evolved into a permanent institution. Over seven decades, UNRWA has become the primary provider of humanitarian aid to Palestinians, delivering essential services in education, healthcare, and social support. While its contributions during acute crises are undeniable, the agency’s systemic shortcomings and controversial practices have severely hindered its ability to effectively fulfil its mandate in the long term.

This briefing critically examines UNRWA’s institutional and operational failings, highlighting its inability to adapt to the changing socio-economic realities of the region and the complex needs of its beneficiaries. Furthermore, it addresses the alarming content found in some of the agency’s educational materials, which have been reported to idealise terrorist ideologies, fan hatred toward Israel and Jews while perpetuating narratives of victimhood and jihad.