An-Najah News - (UNRWA)  expressed concern that the current financial crisis it is facing may put its program for the assistance of survivors of gender-based violence in jeopardy.

UNRWA said its staff moved "swiftly and resolutely" with the coronavirus pandemic at the onset of the global pandemic to meet the needs of GBV survivors.“Despite the difficulty of continuing their work during lockdowns, UNRWA staff pivoted to offer remote assistance, WhatsApp check-ins and adapted referral pathways,” it said

UNRWA saw first-hand the impact of early COVID-19 containment measures, including movement restrictions, particularly on women and girls, the UN agency said in a press release.

For example, the number of GBV survivors identified through UNRWA services dropped by more than half in March and April in some fields, while at the same time the severity of the physical assault and psychological abuse reported increased.
UNRWA said it is operating at full capacity but with inadequate resources, and funds are now urgently needed so staff can continue to deliver essential services without disruption. 

With the Agency’s cash flow at their lowest levels since 2012, and with needs of refugees critically high because of the impact of COVID-19, the risk for GBV survivors become acute if support to them is threatened.

 Only if sufficient funding is received will the Agency be able to continue to support Palestine refugees most at risk, and for whom the consequences of GBV will continue well beyond the current pandemic.