Switzerland prepares to withdraw funding from UN humanitarian program

On December 13, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) criticized Switzerland's move to cut aid amid the Gaza Strip's humanitarian crisis.

UNRWA Director Philippe Lazzarini expressed concern about Switzerland's move to withdraw funding. (Source: United Nations)

Speaking at the Global Refugee Forum in Geneva, UNRWA Director Philippe Lazzarini condemned the agency’s lack of funding. Mr. Lazzarini said that despite its many achievements, UNRWA still suffers from a lack of funding, which affects the quality of its services. Ensuring the rights of refugees is not only the responsibility of humanitarian organizations, but also the responsibility of donors and host countries.

The announcement came after the Swiss House of Representatives cut its annual contribution of 20 million Swiss francs to UNRWA, saying the agency lacked objectivity. The Swiss Senate is expected to vote on the proposal on December 14.

In another related development, the head of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Mr. Filippo Grandi, expressed hope that Switzerland and other countries would continue to fund UNRWA.

“If UNRWA is not funded, Palestinians risk further suffering,” he said.

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