UN OCHA: Fragmented Lives Humanitarian Overview 2013

In 2014 the humanitarian community is requesting $390 million to implement programs to benefit 1.9 million vulnerable Palestinians, mostly in Gaza, Area C, East Jerusalem and the Seam Zone.

The past year has been one of striking contrasts. It saw the resumption of negotiations, offering hope for a final status agreement and the maintenance of a relative calm following the ceasefire agreement after the November 2012 hostilities in Gaza. Against this somewhat hopeful backdrop, the situation on the ground continued to deteriorate, making the continued provision of humanitarian assistance an essential – if unfortunate – feature of the UN’s work in the occupied Palestinian territory. Donors, however, remained generous in supporting humanitarian programming, providing 66 per cent of the funding requested through the Consolidated Appeal Process ($263 million out of $401 million).

In 2014 the humanitarian community [aspires] to implement programmes to benefit 1.9 million vulnerable Palestinians, mostly in Gaza, Area C, East Jerusalem and the Seam Zone.

Despite the increase in needs, other emergencies elsewhere are attracting increased attention. Indications so far point to a contraction of humanitarian funding for the oPt, which may lead to gaps in assistance. I appeal to our partners to make every effort to avoid such gaps, and to complement much needed financial support with engagement to help address the root causes of vulnerability.

This report outlines a range of measures that could be taken immediately to improve the humanitarian situation. I ask for your support, so that working together, we can help Palestinians realise their full potential, free from fear and free from want.

James W. Rawley
United Nations Deputy Special Coordinator &
United Nations Resident/ Humanitarian Coordinator