Ahead of the International Human Rights Day, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has called for an end to inequalities and for the upholding of the human rights of the Palestinian refugees on an equal basis with others.

Themed ‘All Human, All Equal’, this year’s Human Rights Day focuses on addressing inequalities, advancing human rights and rebuilding better, fairer, greener. This also applies to Palestine refugees, who face many barriers to the enjoyment of their human rights, some painfully visible, others invisible but equally inflicting pain and suffering.

“2021 has been a particularly difficult year. Several layers of crises have continued to grip the region, from active conflict, tensions and political instability to the ongoing socio-economic impact of the pandemic. This has hit the most vulnerable and marginalized, in particular Palestine refugee children, women and men, the hardest,” the UNRWA Commissioner-General said.

“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. This universal value and right is not just an abstract phrase for Palestine refugees: We must look to the future and make this promise for freedom and equality a reality for all,” the Commissioner-General concluded. “A dignified life, including quality education, adequate health services and housing are all rights that UNRWA continues to advocate for and promote.”

“The increasing prevalence of negative coping strategies that Palestine refugees everywhere are forced to resort to in order to survive is of extreme concern to UNRWA,” said the UN agency in a statement.

“Closing the gap in inequality and opportunity for Palestine refugees is a commitment to leaving no one behind, to building back better and to honoring the inherent dignity of all human beings, regardless of their status, race, color, descent, or national or ethnic origin.”

Source: Palestinian News & Info Agency