An independent panel has released key recommendations to strengthen the neutrality of the U.N. agency assisting Palestinian refugees, known as UNRWA, following allegations made by Israel. The panel's report, issued on Monday, highlighted several areas for improvement to ensure the agency's impartiality.
Established by the U.N. General Assembly in 1949, UNRWA lacks an executive board but has an advisory body. The panel suggested that neutrality be a recurring topic on the advisory body's meeting agenda and proposed the formation of a working group dedicated to neutrality and integrity matters.
One of the challenges identified was the increasing politicization of UNRWA staff. To address this, the agency was advised to establish clear procedures for handling future allegations of neutrality breaches and to enhance screening processes during staff recruitment.
Furthermore, the panel recommended that UNRWA improve the sharing of digital staff lists with host countries and Israel, including additional information such as ID numbers and job roles. Host countries and Israel were urged to provide UNRWA with screening results and any concerning findings.
Notably, the report emphasized the need for more senior international staff in Gaza to oversee neutrality issues, as the current international staff presence is less than 1% of the total workforce.
UNRWA's efforts in management and internal oversight reform were praised, with a suggestion to establish a centralized neutrality investigation unit. The agency was also urged to enforce a zero-tolerance policy regarding school textbooks that promote antisemitism, discrimination, or incitement to hatred.
Addressing the sensitive issue of staff unions' politicization, the panel recommended an independent vetting process for all union representatives to ensure their neutrality.
Enhanced engagement with donor nations was deemed crucial to fostering trust and strengthening partnerships, with the international community urged to support UNRWA in addressing neutrality concerns.
