UN Women’s latest Gender Alert on the war in Gaza reveals the significant challenges faced by Palestinian women-led organizations, highlights their unwavering commitment to saving lives and calls for urgent, coordinated investments in their operations on the ground.
Women-Led Organizations at the Forefront
Operating in some of the most dangerous and challenging areas of Gaza and the West Bank, Palestinian women-led organizations are uniquely positioned to reach women and girls most in need due to their extensive community outreach. Over the past eight months of war, UN Women has documented the deteriorating conditions for women and girls across sectors such as food security, shelter, health, and safety. New data collected in April 2024 shows that over 80% of women in Gaza depend on food assistance, with 83.5% reporting that this aid is insufficient to meet their basic family needs.
Fourth Gender Alert: Focus on Women-Led Organizations
The latest Gender Alert, launched today by UN Women, focuses on the work of Women-Led Organizations (WLOs). It presents findings from an assessment of 25 Palestinian women-led organizations operating in Gaza and the West Bank, revealing their critical role in the humanitarian response. Despite immense challenges, including 89% of surveyed organizations experiencing damage to their offices and 35% facing complete destruction, these organizations continue their vital work. Together, they maintain a network of 1,575 staff members across Gaza and the West Bank.
Adapting and Overcoming Adversity
Close to 60% of the organizations report being able to operate at full capacity. Their commitment to their communities is evident, with 88% shifting towards emergency relief. These organizations provide essential services such as the distribution of non-food items (64% of organizations), food items (56%), cash assistance (48%), and protection-related services, including psychosocial support and case management. However, financial struggles are acute, with 56% of organizations reporting decreased funding and 88% facing major financial difficulties, which hampers their ability to deliver critical services.
UN Women Executive Director's Call to Action
“The work of women-led organizations in Gaza and the West Bank is as much about the survival of women and girls as it is about maintaining hope, dignity, and the possibility of a better future for those they serve. Investing in their resilience is not just important – it is the key to an inclusive response that leaves no one behind,” said UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous.
Recommendations for Action
Recognizing the pivotal role of women-led organizations in crisis and recovery, UN Women and these organizations urge the international community and stakeholders to:
Actively fund women-led organizations: These organizations are vital for reaching the women and girls most in need.
Advocate for increased humanitarian access: This will enable organizations to expand their life-saving responses.
Include women-led organizations in all humanitarian coordination structures: Ensuring a truly effective and inclusive humanitarian response.
The resilience and dedication of Palestinian women-led organizations are crucial for the survival and future of women and girls in Gaza and the West Bank. It is imperative that the international community supports and invests in these organizations to ensure that their vital work can continue.