In response to the escalating urgent needs of women and girls in Palestine, more than a year since the war on Gaza began, the Republic of Korea, through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), has announced a vital commitment of $6.17 million to UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, in partnership with the Ministry of Health. This funding aims to enhance gender based violence and sexual and reproductive health services for women and girls affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the West Bank. The project will benefit almost 95,000 people, including women—both pregnant and postpartum—young people, and healthcare workers.
With this investment, UNFPA will implement a comprehensive 30-month project titled “Providing Lifesaving and Integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health and Gender-Based Violence Services in Humanitarian Settings in the Middle East.” The project is designed to improve access to essential healthcare for approximately 30,000 pregnant women, particularly those facing high-risk pregnancies. Key activities will include the establishment of mobile clinics to serve 7,500 people, the provision of antenatal and postpartum care for 10,800 pregnant and 1,500 postpartum women, as well as psychosocial support to 3,000 women and girls to address the urgent needs of women during this critical time.
Mr. Nestor Owomuhangi, UNFPA’s representative in Palestine, expressed gratitude for the support. “The scale of devastation in Gaza remains unparalleled,” he stated. “UNFPA expresses its gratitude to the people and Government of the Republic of Korea for their dedication to improving the health and welfare of Palestinian women and girls. This support is vital for maintaining critical health services and ensuring that women and girls have access to the necessary care in the midst of all the hardships.”
KOICA's funding will also support the establishment of safe spaces for women and girls, ensuring protection against gender-based violence and providing vital support services. This project aims to empower women-led organizations and strengthen community resilience, addressing the urgent and multifaceted needs arising from the ongoing crisis.
The Republic of Korea remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that effectively respond to gender based violence and sexual and reproductive health challenges. Every dollar of assistance is vital, particularly in a context where women and girls face disproportionate vulnerabilities.
The situation in Palestine remains dire, with over 2.2 million people in need of assistance. The impact of the war on women and girls is particularly staggering: More than 500,000 women have lost access to vital services like pre- and postnatal care, and over 17,000 pregnant women are in severe stages of hunger. Access to healthcare services has been severely compromised due to ongoing conflict, highlighting the necessity for immediate action and continued international support.
Quotes
“Addressing the gender based violence and sexual and reproductive health needs of women and girls in Palestine is paramount. The Republic of Korea is committed to working alongside UNFPA to deliver essential services to those most in need.” - Korean Representative for Palestine Mr. Jeon Gyu-seok
"The health and well-being of mothers and children are the foundation for the prosperity of any society. In Palestine, where the challenges of occupation, resource constraints, and economic instability are part of daily life, ensuring access to quality sexual and reproductive health services is not just a priority but a necessity.” - H.E. Minister of Health Dr. Majed Abu Ramadan.
Quick Facts
- This funding will directly benefit 96,000 people, including women—both pregnant and postpartum—young people, and healthcare workers in Palestine.
- The project will provide mobile clinics and training for healthcare workers, enhancing service delivery in the region.
- UNFPA has established partnerships with 20 local implementing organizations to ensure effective project implementation.
Associated Links
Contacts
Media Relations Office
Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA)
Email: media@koica.go.kr
Lisa Sabella
Communication, Advocacy, and Partnership Officer
UNFPA Palestine
Email: lsabella@unfpa.org
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