Opening of the Exhibition “UNRWA... Where To?” at the Yasser Arafat Museum

2025-04-22

The exhibition “UNRWA... Where To?” was inaugurated on April 22, 2025, at the Yasser Arafat Museum in Ramallah, bringing together Palestinian officials, international diplomats, cultural figures, and artists. Led by Dr. Ahmed Soboh, Chairman of the Yasser Arafat Foundation, the event aimed to shed light on the vital role that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has played in supporting Palestinian refugees since its establishment in 1949. The exhibition also serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing impact of the Nakba and the international community’s failure to resolve the Palestinian refugee crisis.

In his remarks, Dr. Soboh highlighted how UNRWA stands as both a provider of essential humanitarian services and a witness to the unresolved plight of millions of displaced Palestinians. He strongly condemned recent actions by the Israeli occupational government, including the October 2024 Knesset decision to ban UNRWA’s operations, the systematic destruction of refugee camps in Gaza and the northern West Bank, and the forced displacement of their residents. These actions, he emphasized, are direct violations of international law and threaten the survival of vital support systems for refugees.

The exhibition features a wide range of artistic and historical content, including paintings, photographs, video installations, and rare artifacts provided by UNRWA. Among the notable items on display are a tent, a printing press, and archival tools used in 1948 and 1967—objects that offer a tangible connection to the agency’s long-standing presence in Palestinian life. Accompanying these items are educational displays and documents that outline UNRWA’s mission, achievements, and the challenges it continues to face.

As the 11th exhibition in a series organized by the Yasser Arafat Museum, “UNRWA... Where To?” seeks to inform the public and advocate for the protection of an agency that remains critical to the lives of millions. The exhibition will remain open to visitors until October 15, 2025.