IM to the Swedish Government: All Decency Has Been Abandoned
Today, IM sent an open letter to the Swedish government and the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs. In the letter, our Secretary General Gabriella Fredriksson issues strong criticism of the government’s decision to continue withholding support for UNRWA – the UN’s relief agency in Palestine – despite the fact that people in Gaza are now starving and dying due to lack of water, healthcare, and shelter.
“This is a humanitarian catastrophe without precedent, and Sweden is choosing to look the other way. It is disgraceful and dangerous. We demand action,” says Gabriella Fredriksson.
Since the outbreak of war, the situation in Gaza has grown increasingly desperate. The UN reports that more than half a million people are on the brink of famine. At the same time, humanitarian aid is being blocked, and many organisations – including UNRWA – are left without funding. Sweden is one of the few countries to have frozen its aid, despite the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) calling for emergency relief, and despite the lack of evidence justifying a prolonged suspension.
IM has been present in Gaza for decades, working through local partner organisations who are able to reach those in need even in the most difficult circumstances.
“Our colleagues in Gaza report children drinking filthy water, women giving birth without anaesthesia, families sheltering under tarpaulins amidst the rubble. We know what is happening – and we refuse to remain silent,” says Gabriella Fredriksson.
In the open letter, IM calls on Sweden to:
- Immediately reinstate funding to UNRWA
- Work actively for an immediate ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian access
- Clearly condemn the blockade of aid and the collective punishment of civilians
By: Malin Kihlström