The challenges of UNRWA's mandate towards Palestinian women exposed to gender-based violence

The United Nation Relief and Work Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East, as a humanitarian organization, implements and conducts its programs in extremely complex territories. The impact of external factors, such as cultural, political and economic, on the implementation of the Agency’s initiatives is significant, and it is very important that the Agency takes them into account. One of the Agency’s aims is to address gender-based violence against Palestinian women. Women in Palestinian society do not have an easy life, so these programs are extremely important. To this end, the Agency must rise to the challenge to meet the needs of Palestinian women. One of the barriers highlighted in the study are cultural barriers, such as patriarchal values, religious interpretations and a culture of shame, that shape the perception of women in society and the use of violence against them. These deep-rooted norms pose a huge challenge in promoting gender equality and preventing violence. With this in mind, the Agency creates programs that respect the traditions and beliefs of the Palestinian population and are implemented in conjunction with local organizations. Another factor is political barriers such as the ongoing Israeli occupation, barriers to movement or mix of laws. During the implementation of programs, the Agency navigates these factors by working with governments of the countries where Palestinian refugees have settled and constantly monitoring the political situation in those countries. As a result, the Agency adapts its programs to the evolving political situation and to the changing needs of Palestinian women experiencing violence. The third factor that influences assault against Palestinian women is economic factors. These factors include lack of education, especially among females, poverty and food insecurity. These conditions increase the risks of violence against women by family members. During the implementation process, the Agency ensures that its programs empower women, demonstrating that they can work and benefit from education. UNRWA focuses on initiatives that show women how to be independent, making them more likely to seek help.