UNRWA funding cuts deepen hardship for Palestinian refugees in Lebanon

What the report says

Al Jazeera reports that Palestinian refugees in Lebanon are facing worsening hardship as UNRWA’s services are reduced by funding shortfalls and the effects of Israel’s war in the region. The article, published on 13 November 2026 from Beirut, describes how cuts have forced the UN agency to scale back schools, clinics and other support in camps where many Palestinians rely on its aid for daily needs.

According to the report, UNRWA has reduced working hours and closed some facilities after a severe budget gap, affecting education and healthcare in camps such as Bourj el-Barajneh, Shatila and Ein el-Hilweh. Residents say overcrowded classrooms, fewer medical services and limited assistance have added pressure to already strained households. One mother interviewed by Al Jazeera said her children struggle in crowded classes and she has paid for extra lessons to make up for the reduction in schooling.

The article adds that the crisis is compounded by Lebanon’s long-standing restrictions on Palestinian refugees, many of whom are stateless and barred from several professions. It also notes that some Palestinians from Syria face additional legal and residency problems after policy changes in Lebanon. Local aid groups and camp residents told Al Jazeera that economic strain has coincided with more reports of drug use, crime and frustration over limited food distributions.

The report says the situation matters because UNRWA remains a central provider of education, healthcare and emergency help for Palestinians across Lebanon’s camps, and continued cuts could deepen instability and displacement fears, especially in the south.