UNICEF in emergencies

Donor Update - 19 October 2005
Some of the most significant changes in the five-year conflict in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) have occurred over the last nine months. However, while the children’s exposure to death and injury has reduced, they are still living with distress and continue to be vulnerable. No doubt with half of the 1.3 million residents under the age of 18 years and three quarters of all households having at least one child in school, daily events in Gaza affect children in an immediate and significant manner. And in the West Bank, the continued system of closures in the West Bank seriously affects both the economic and social fabric of the Palestinian society – including the right to education, play, health and nutrition.
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Donor Update - 8 July 2005
Since February, there has been a gradual easing on restrictions and a reduction of violence in the West Bank and Gaza. Two successful rounds of polio vaccination as well as one round of immunization against measles, mumps and rubella have been concluded. Emergency supplies for health and education activities have been pre-positioned in Gaza for emergency health interventions, and training has been provided both for health personnel and teachers. To date, $ 5,148,523 have been received against the HAR appeal for $ 12,720,884. However, almost 10 percent of the children in oPt are still chronically malnourished and children continue to be the victims of violence and un-exploded ordnance, while access to schools remains often a challenge. In order to meet children's needs in the sectors of health, nutrition, education and psycho-social support, the CAP has therefore been increased to $ 14.2 million. Immediate requirements amount to $8.2 million.
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Donor Update - 12 April 2005
One of the most urgent issues to be addressed in oPt is the chronic child malnutrition rates (now up to almost 10%). Access to education, hampered by the restrictions of movement, is another challenge for Palestinian children who are often affected by the long-term psychological trauma of growing up in an environment where violence and bloodshed is a daily threat. UNICEF is present to assist children and families in the areas of immunization, education and psychosocial support. But to date, only 9% of the appeal requirements have been met. UNICEF is therefore urgently seeking USD 8.5 million for immunization, health services, education equipment, safe water supplies and training of teachers.
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