By Prof. (Dr.) Nishakant Ojha
Israel recently banned the UNRWA (The United Nations Relief & Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the North East) , an initiative that aids communities by providing essential services and job opportunities. While Israel frames this action as a security measure, it diverges from global human rights standards, potentially leading to long-term consequences.
UNRWA’s Role in Supporting Vulnerable Communities
UNRWA is dedicated to upholding human rights by ensuring access to crucial resources like employment, healthcare, and education, especially in conflict-affected areas. Its initiatives are essential for struggling communities in places like Gaza and the West Bank, where economic conditions are dire.
Security or Short-Sighted Strategy?
Israel claims that limiting UNRWA’s activities will reduce security risks. However, critics argue that depriving marginalized communities of essential services could increase instability, as poverty and lack of resources often lead to heightened frustrations, which may fuel further tensions.
Legal Concerns and International Norms
The ban raises questions under international law, as it appears to conflict with several treaties:
Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR): Adopted in 1948, this declaration guarantees rights to work, earn a living, and social protection. Israel’s action restricts Palestinians’ access to these rights, raising questions about its compliance as a UN member.
International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR): This treaty ensures fair employment and a decent standard of living. Israel’s ban on UNRWA could be seen as hindering these rights for Palestinians.
Geneva Conventions: As an occupying power, Israel has a duty to provide essential resources to civilians under its control. Blocking UNRWA may contradict these obligations.
Impact on Palestinian Communities
UNRWA’s absence has already intensified struggles for Palestinians, who face some of the world’s highest unemployment rates. The loss of stable jobs, healthcare, and education exacerbates the region’s economic crisis, leaving families more dependent on limited humanitarian aid instead of achieving economic self-sufficiency.
Risk of Escalating Instability
While Israel’s decision may address immediate security concerns, the long-term risks could include worsening an already tense situation. By marginalizing communities, Israel risks deepening resentment and mistrust, which could increase the chances of unrest. International leaders, including those from the EU and UN, argue that sustainable security should not come at the expense of human rights.
Diplomatic and Economic Ramifications
Globally, the ban has strained Israel’s relationships, particularly with Western allies that prioritize human rights. Continued resistance to reversing the ban could result in diplomatic isolation. Public sentiment is also shifting in areas where humanitarian principles are valued, potentially impacting Israel’s economic ties due to calls for boycotts, divestments, and sanctions, especially from Europe and North America.
Broader Regional Effects: Rising Tensions
The restriction on UNRWA impacts not only Palestinians but also threatens broader regional stability. By limiting access to basic services, Israel fosters an environment where poverty and discontent may increase, factors that can contribute to radicalization. This decision could also strain relations with neighbouring Arab countries, complicating the broader Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape.
Israel’s Position in Global Organizations
Israel’s policy has drawn the attention of international groups like the UN Human Rights Council, which may consider further investigations or sanctions. This shift risks diminishing Israel’s influence in these organizations, complicating future diplomatic efforts.
Shifting Global Public Sentiment
Global support for Palestinian rights is growing, with advocacy groups pushing for change. In democratic countries, public opinion is increasingly backing humanitarian principles. Israel’s stance could alienate future generations of global leaders, weakening its international ties over time.
Implications for India and BRICS Nations
Israel’s ban on UNRWA impacts regional stability and places countries like India and other BRICS nations in a delicate position.
India’s Diplomatic Balancing Act
India, which has historically balanced relations with both Israel and the Palestinian territories, faces a diplomatic challenge. India’s support for Palestinian rights aligns with its commitment to social justice. Israel’s restrictions could affect India’s credibility in West Asia, where the Palestinian issue resonates deeply.
Impact on India’s Soft Power: India’s support for Palestinian rights strengthens its humanitarian stance. Israel’s actions may force India to carefully balance its relations in West Asia.
Economic Ties: India maintains strong economic partnerships with Israel in sectors like defence and technology, as well as significant trade relations with Gulf nations concerned over Palestinian rights.
Humanitarian Diplomacy: India’s role in advocating human rights can influence other developing nations and reinforce its leadership in the region.
BRICS Nations’ Perspective
The UNRWA ban provides BRICS countries with both challenges and opportunities:
Humanitarian Advocacy: BRICS often promotes rights for marginalized groups. The ban offers BRICS a chance to reinforce this stance and improve its influence in international organizations.
Geopolitical Balance: With Western nations increasingly scrutinizing Israel’s policies, BRICS could adopt a balanced position, supporting both security and humanitarian needs.
BRICS-Israel Relations: Israel’s restrictions may impact its partnerships with BRICS if these nations feel compelled to condemn the ban.
China and Russia’s Influence: China and Russia may leverage this situation to strengthen ties with Middle Eastern countries critical of Israel’s policy.
Economic and Trade Implications for BRICS
Israel’s stance has economic implications as ethical trade practices gain traction globally.
Promoting Ethical Trade: Increasing advocacy for ethical trade may encourage BRICS to consider humanitarian principles in their trade policies.
Regional Security Concerns: Instability resulting from the UNRWA ban could create security and economic challenges, affecting migration flows and regional stability.
BRICS’ Role as a Multilateral Advocate
The UNRWA ban allows BRICS to showcase its commitment to a balanced, multipolar world. By encouraging a solution that respects both Israeli security and Palestinian humanitarian rights, BRICS can solidify its reputation as a coalition focused on equitable development and peace.
Reconsidering the Path Forward
Israel’s decision to ban UNRWA could lead to diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian repercussions. While the move addresses short-term security concerns, it may harm Israel’s standing and stability over time. A reassessment that balances security with humanitarian needs could help Israel foster regional peace and safeguard its long-term interests.
The best way forward for Israel to ease tensions surrounding the UNRWA ban, Israel can pursue a balanced approach that promotes both security and humanitarian goals. Initiating open dialogue with UNRWA leadership, potentially under third-party oversight, can address concerns over misuse of resources and establish transparency, fostering trust. Conditioning UNRWA funding on strict, independent monitoring with support from allies like the EU and the U.S. would reassure Israel of compliance, while a coalition for regional humanitarian aid—including GCC partners—could mitigate security concerns by diversifying support. Collaborating with Palestinian and Israeli security agencies on shared security initiatives, such as joint monitoring efforts, would allow UNRWA to operate safely within Israel’s security framework. Involving trusted international organizations, such as the UN or the Arab League, in mediation could further legitimize UNRWA activities while maintaining oversight.
A public diplomacy effort highlighting UNRWA’s commitment to humanitarian principles can help shift public perception, ultimately enabling Israel to balance its security priorities with the region’s humanitarian needs, fostering stability in the process.
The author is Eminent International Expert in Foreign Affairs & Counter-Terrorism (Specially West Asia & Middle East).
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