Thank
you to constituents who have recently got in touch regarding the role of the
United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East
(UNRWA).
Since
the UN’s inception 75 years, questions have always been raised about the
effectiveness and accountability of its bodies and agencies.
It
is vital that agencies like the UNRWA remain fit for purpose in the 21st
centuries prioritises political impartiality. Many of the criticisms that have
been directed at the UNRWA include its inflexibility, inability to adapt to the
ever-changing political environment in the region, and refusal to transfer its
responsibilities and authority to the Palestinian Authority.
The
most serious of accusations directed at the agency relate to its alleged
involvement with terrorists organisations and role in promoting antisemitism in
the Palestinian education system.
These
are very serious claims that the FCO will need to examine carefully before
taking any action. If proven to be true, I agree with constituents that we need
to look again at the RWA and the options available to reform and ensure that it
is a fair and effective UN agency, including replacing it with a mission
working under the rules of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
(UNHCR).
As
a founding member of the UN at the end of WWII and a permanent member of the UN
Security Council, the UK has always played a significant role within the
organisation.
It
is important that we use our influence and role for the good of the
international community. I will certainly bear in mind constituents’ concerns
about the UNRWA when I next meet with ministerial colleagues at the FCO, and I
want to thank constituents again for taking the time to bring my attention to
this matter.
