An independent review of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has highlighted serious gaps in the implementation of neutrality procedures. The review was prompted by allegations from Israel regarding UNRWA staff members' involvement in Hamas activities.
The review panel, led by former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, found that while UNRWA has robust procedures to maintain neutrality, there are issues such as staff expressing political views, problematic content in textbooks, and disruptions by staff unions.
The report made 50 recommendations to enhance UNRWA's neutrality, emphasizing the importance of upholding the U.N. principle of neutrality.
Israel had alleged that a significant number of UNRWA employees were members of terrorist organizations, but the panel noted that Israel did not provide supporting evidence to the refugee agency.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appointed the independent review panel specifically to assess UNRWA's neutrality, separate from investigating the Israeli allegations. The Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) is conducting a separate investigation into the Israeli claims.
The suspension of contributions to UNRWA by the United States and other countries following the allegations led to a funding pause of approximately $450 million. However, some countries have resumed contributions.
The report stressed the critical role of UNRWA in providing essential services to Palestinian refugees in various regions, highlighting its importance in the absence of a political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
UNRWA's Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini emphasized the agency's commitment to implementing the review's recommendations to safeguard its neutrality.
The report called for steps to address politicization within UNRWA, stronger oversight of its operations, and a zero-tolerance policy towards antisemitism and discrimination in educational materials.
International experts have warned of a potential humanitarian crisis in Gaza if UNRWA were to be dismantled, underscoring the agency's vital role in providing aid and services to Palestinian refugees.
The review, conducted over nine weeks by a panel of experts and research organizations, involved consultations with various stakeholders and representatives from multiple countries and organizations.
