UNESCO: Statement by Iceland under item 221 EX/5.I.K on Supporting the continuity of UNRWA's educational activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territory

Statement delivered by Ms. Kristín Halla Kristinsdóttir
Deputy Permanent Delegate of Iceland to UNESCO
221st Executive Board Session of UNESCO
Item 221 EX/5.I.K Supporting the continuity of UNRWA's educational activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territory
Paris, 11 April 2025

Iceland fully supports UNESCO’s mandate as the custodian of SDG 4 on education and we urge the Organization to continue its important commitment in providing expertise and delivering services to Palestinian children and youth.

The children in Gaza have missed their second consecutive school year and their future remains uncertain. Iceland deeply regrets the entry into force of Israeli laws on UNRWA. The agency is the most centrally placed humanitarian organisation responding to the needs of Palestine refugees in the Middle East. Its support is vital for a long awaited Gaza ceasefire, relief for refugees and stability in the region. It is indispensable.

International law and international humanitarian law have repeatedly been violated. Iceland has repeatedly voiced its condemnation and frustration with this and called on Israel, and all other parties to the conflict, to adhere to international law. This includes respecting UNRWA’s mandate and immunity, unhindered humanitarian access into Gaza, and protection of humanitarian staff.

In January, as a symbol of unwavering support for UNRWA, the Government of Iceland decided to disburse its annual contribution early.

Looking ahead, we very much welcome and encourage UNESCO’s future plans to conduct on-site assessment of the damage to educational institutions and support habilitation plans, in the same manner as other crisis-affected areas.

I thank you.