GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – Guyana has pledged US$150,000 to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), says it is likely to shut down operations by the end of February amid a suspension of funding by Western countries.
“Guyana’s contribution to UNRWA aligns with our appeals for a more robust international response to the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip and the protection of civilians impacted by the ongoing conflict,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said in a statement.
Guyana said that as an elected member of the United Nations Security Council, it supports a ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza.
At least 18 countries, along with the European Union, have suspended their funding for the UNRWA based on Israel’s allegations that 12 of its staff were involved in the October 7 attacks by Hamas.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, in a statement on Thursday, said, “As the war in Gaza is being pursued unabated, and at the time the International Court of Justice calls for more humanitarian assistance, it is the time to reinforce and not to weaken UNRWA.”
He said the UN refugee agency “remains the largest aid organization in one of the most severe and complex humanitarian crises in the world.”
“I echo the call of the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to resume funding to UNRWA,” Lazzarini said. “If the funding remains suspended, we will most likely be forced to shut down our operations by the end of February, not only in Gaza but also across the region.”
Guyana said that over the years, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country had made several financial contributions to UNRWA “in alignment with our consistent support for and solidarity with the Palestinian people in their quest for freedom and a secure homeland.”
Guyana also said it is a member of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People.
“The Government of Guyana looks forward to a new day for Palestinians and Israelis beyond the constant shadows of war. Guyana is prepared to work as a member of the UN Security Council and with the entire UN membership to accelerate the vision of two independent states living side by side in peace and security. Of a peaceful Middle East,” the Foreign Ministry added.
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