It reminds us of the need to vigilently oppose all forms of discrimination. The memorial also vividly portrays historical reasons for the need for the existence of Israel. its continuing importance as a homeland and a refuge for an oppressed people. I toured the United Nations Relief and Works Agency [UNRWA] facilities for Palestinian refugees in the Gaza Strip. There are over 350.000 Palestinian refugees in Gaza. UNRWA is mandated by the U.N. General Assembly to provide education. health and relief services to Palestinian refugees. In 1984 education accounted for over 60 percent of UNRWAs budget and in 1985 this trend continues. Over 20 percent of the Palestinians registered with UNRWA are under 20 years of age so the emphasis is on education for young people though there are also vocational programs for adults. I toured Gazas refugee housing. schools. hospitals. and vocational training programs. I was favorably impressed by the commitment and dedication of the staff. and the desire of the people to improve their lives. This is a valuable program and the United States contribution to it should be maintained. There is both a humanitarian and a pragmatic reason that the United States should maintain assistance to this program based on a realistic assessment of our interests in the Middle East. UNRWA provides assistance to Palestinian refugees throughout the Middle East. We have an interest in promoting political stability and tempering political extremism in the Middle East. Educational and vocational programs develop skills and give people a sense of dignity and hope.
Keywords matched
refugee refugees