Sweden announced on Friday, December 20, that it will no longer support the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Development Minister Benjamin Dousa revealed the decision during an interview with TV4.
According to Dousa, Sweden will redirect its assistance to Palestinian refugees through alternative humanitarian channels, aiming to maintain aid delivery to Gaza without relying on UNRWA.
“We are also increasing humanitarian aid for Gaza by 400 million Swedish kronor, bringing the total to 800 million Swedish kronor,” Dousa stated.
The decision follows Israel’s recent ban on UNRWA activities, which Sweden criticized. However, Dousa emphasized that the shift aims to improve the accessibility of aid, noting that political factors and logistical challenges with UNRWA played a significant role in Sweden’s decision.
By reallocating resources, Sweden plans to enhance the efficiency of its humanitarian support while addressing the complexities of operating under current restrictions.
