Palestinians in International Agencies: Roles and Perceptions

Addressing the question, 'Are there Palestinians holding office at International agencies like the UN, World Bank, and IMF?', this article explores the current involvement of Palestinians in such organizations, their roles, and the misconceptions surrounding Palestinian citizenship and identification with the Palestinian cause.

Current Involvement of Palestinians in International Organizations

I have interacted with numerous Palestinians working for multilateral organizations and have observed a diverse group of individuals with various nationalities and passports. Many Palestinians hold Palestinian passports issued by the Palestinian Authority, while others have obtained citizenship from local Muslim countries or in Europe, South America, or the United States. Such individuals often contribute significantly to the operations and decision-making processes of international agencies.

UNRWA: A Case Study

United Nation Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which has over 30,000 employees, is predominantly staffed by Palestinian Arabs. UNRWA operates in five field offices in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and the West Bank, with additional offices in New York, Geneva, Brussels, and Cairo. This large workforce indicates the significant presence and influence of Palestinians in international humanitarian organizations.

Shared Views and Perspectives

The term 'Palestinian' is often misunderstood. Throughout history, Palestine never had definite borders or recognized sovereignty. During the period of British administration in the early 20th century, the region was known as the mandated territory of Palestine. Its name was eventually changed to Israel with the declaration of independence in 1947. Today, people who identify as 'Palestinian' do so primarily for the purpose of supporting the cause, which many accuse of being an effort to destroy Israel.

Notable Figures: Salam Fayyad

Salam Fayyad, a noteworthy candidate for prime minister in 2007, serves as an example of Palestinians actively contributing to the global community. Having worked for the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Fayyad is now a professor at Princeton University. His career reflects the broad-ranging contributions of Palestinians to international organizations and academic institutions. Fayyad’s views on the situation offer a unique perspective, highlighting the complexity of political and social dynamics in the region.

While some Palestinians emigrate and obtain foreign citizenship, the vast majority remain committed to serving in international organizations, often holding significant roles. This involvement is both a testament to their capabilities and a reflection of their dedication to shared humanitarian and development goals.

This article aims to provide a factual overview of the roles and involvement of Palestinians in international agencies, dispelling misconceptions and highlighting their contributions to global governance and development.