Canada Resumes Funding to UNRWA in Gaza
Canada’s Minister for International Development, Ahmed Hussen, announced on Friday that Ottawa is reinstating funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to address the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Hussen emphasized the urgent need to respond to the dire needs of Palestinian civilians, particularly those at risk of mass starvation in parts of Gaza. The decision marks a significant step as Canada becomes the first country to resume funding for UNRWA, which plays a crucial role in providing essential services such as education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza.
The decision to pause funding was prompted by allegations of UNRWA staff involvement in an attack on October 7. However, with the release of interim findings from the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) investigation, Canada has reviewed the measures taken by UNRWA to address the allegations and strengthen its internal processes.
Minister Hussen reiterated Canada’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for any wrongdoing while acknowledging UNRWA’s efforts to address the allegations. He stressed that resuming funding will enable UNRWA to better respond to the urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza.
UNRWA has taken swift action in response to the allegations, including the dismissal of staff accused by Israel. The organization has condemned the allegations, reaffirming its commitment to upholding UN values and serving the people it supports.
Hussen’s announcement comes ahead of Ottawa’s scheduled payment of CAD 25 million to UNRWA. Despite the temporary pause in funding starting in January, regular payments were not missed, with the last payment made in December amounting to approximately 25 million Canadian dollars.
As Canada resumes funding to UNRWA, the focus remains on addressing the immediate needs of Palestinian civilians while advocating for accountability and reforms within the organization. Stay tuned for further updates on Canada’s efforts to support humanitarian aid in Gaza.
