National Statement of Finland at the UNRWA Pledging Conference

Delivered by Permanent Representative of Finland to the UN, Ambassador Elina Kalkku on June 30, 2026, in New York.

Mr. President, Excellencies, Colleagues,

Finland firmly supports the UN-coordinated humanitarian system and has continued to support UNRWA’s mandate and work for decades. Our contribution to UNRWA this year is 5 million euros in flexible core funding.

UNRWA has managed to continue to provide humanitarian assistance, services and protection under extremely challenging conditions to people in Gaza, as well as to Palestinian refugees in the West Bank, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria.

UNRWA’s ability to provide education, primary healthcare and emergency assistance to millions of Palestine refugees is important not only for humanitarian purposes but also as a stabilizing element in the region.

The situation in Gaza and across the region remains deeply alarming. Aid entering Gaza has remained largely insufficient, both in quantity and quality, while nearly the entire population depends on life-saving services.

The situation in the West Bank is deteriorating rapidly due to an unprecedented surge in settler violence, frequent military operations and severe movement restrictions. Humanitarian space is extremely restricted both in Gaza and the West Bank. The situation is difficult in the neighboring countries as well.

Finland continues to call for Israel to comply with its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law. Finland has repeatedly called for UNRWA’s operating conditions to be secured.

Trust and trustworthiness must be maintained and strengthened. During the past two years, Finland has allocated funding to further develop UNRWA’s risk management. We welcome the ongoing efforts to reinforce oversight mechanisms and to ensure that UNRWA continues to meet these high standards.

Accountability, transparency, and adherence to the highest standards in all UN operations are crucial. We welcome UNRWA’s commitment to the implementation of the Colonna recommendations and recognize the progress that has been made towards their closure.

We support UNRWA’s efforts to develop the organization’s governance structures, in consultation with Member States. We encourage UNRWA to present options for consideration and to advance the discussion on the future. Transparency and maintaining an open and honest dialogue are crucial.

Mr. President,

I would like to conclude by thanking UNRWA for continuing its important work in supporting Palestine refugees’ rights, and especially their right to a life with dignity.

I thank you.