The Palestinian NGOs Network (PNGO), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme/ Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (UNDP/PAPP) has issued a comprehensive study assessing the state of civil society organizations in light of the ongoing Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip for over 300 days. The study aims to analyze the current capabilities, challenges, and needs of these organizations, in addition to evaluating the losses and damages they have suffered due to the aggression, to ensure the continuation of their vital functions and roles.
The study categorized organizations by sectors such as health, education, food security and agriculture, water and sanitation, and social protection. It assessed the physical and operational status of the organizations based on their sectoral specialization and determined the extent of the damage they incurred. Additionally, it evaluated their operational functions including governance, human resources, financial management, procurement management, programs and projects, coordination and communication, safety and security, monitoring and evaluation (MEAL), and access to data.
The results of the assessment, based on surveys, interviews, and discussions with focus groups during March and April 2024, revealed severe damage to the infrastructure, human resources, and financial capacities of CSOs. The Israeli aggression has led to the destruction of offices, facilities, and equipment, causing significant disruptions in service delivery and operational challenges. Many organizations have also lost staff, volunteers, and board members. Financial resources have been significantly impacted, with many organizations struggling to secure funding and maintain operations.
Despite these challenges, CSOs have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. Many organizations continued to operate with limited capacity, implementing emergency interventions to meet the immediate needs of affected populations. The assessment also highlighted the specific needs of each sector:
- Health sector: Requires support to rebuild damaged infrastructure, purchase medical supplies, and address trauma for healthcare workers.
- Education sector: Needs to rebuild schools, provide psychosocial support to children and teachers, and develop alternative educational solutions.
- Food security and agriculture sector: Needs support to restore agricultural production, improve supply chains, and address the root causes of food insecurity.
- Gender and social protection sector: Requires resources to address gender-based violence, provide psychosocial support to women and children, and promote social inclusion.
The report concludes with recommendations to support the recovery of civil society organizations in the Gaza Strip and increase their resilience. These recommendations include providing financial and technical assistance, strengthening coordination mechanisms, and advocating for policy changes to enable organizations to operate freely and effectively. By addressing these needs and challenges, the international community can contribute to the long-term recovery and development of the Gaza Strip.
To download and read the full study, please click on the link below: