Until October 2023, the conditions in the occupied Palestinian territories became more tense and Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank became more vulnerable. The already deteriorating socio-economic situation, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, worsened significantly. Due to a lack of employment opportunities, restrictions on the movement of goods and people, etc., the unemployment rate skyrocketed during the year. With service sectors and non-governmental organisations resources stretched thin, Palestinians were struggling to meet their basic needs – especially people with disabilities, who are often overlooked and lack proper representation in development and relief efforts.
Since October 7th, due to the escalation of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, the humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels. Approximately 75% of Gaza's population, totalling 2.3 million people, have been displaced, facing severe shortages of food, water, shelter, and medicine. As of February 6th, at least 30,00 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, with 70,000 injured, leading to significant risks of further complications and long-term disabilities due to the scarcity of hygiene and medical services.
Violence has also escalated in the West Bank since October 7th: 380 Palestinians have been killed and 4,500 injured, including in East Jerusalem (Feb. 2024).
Number of HI staff members: 37
Date the programme opened: 1996
