About UNRWA

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East(UNRWA) provides education, healthcare, social services, emergency aid, andprotection to over 4.9 million Palestinian refugees living in Gaza, the WestBank, Syira, Lebanon, and Jordan. 98% of UNRWA’s funding comes from voluntary contributions made by UN member-states and generous donations from private organizations and individuals.

History

UNRWA was established by United Nations General Assembly resolution 302 (IV) in 1949 following the 1948 Arab-Israeli conflict to carry out direct relief and works programsfor Palestine refugees. The Agency began operations on May 1st, 1950.

UNRWA continues its work pending a solution to the plight of Palestine refugees. UNRWA’s mandate is voted on and approved by the UN General Assembly, and in 2010 the General Assembly voted to extend UNRWA’s mandate until 30 June 2014.

Leadership

Filippo Grandi is the current Commissioner General of UNRWA.

Margot Ellis is the current Deputy Commissioner General of UNRWA.