UNRWA Accountability and Transparency Act: Changes to Aid Funding.
This act aims to withhold U.S. contributions to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) unless the agency meets a series of conditions regarding transparency, prevention of terrorism, and the propagation of hatred. Citizens should be aware that these changes could affect the scope and manner of humanitarian aid in the region, as well as U.S. foreign policy.
Key points
The U.S. will withhold funding from UNRWA unless the agency meets strict conditions regarding ties to terrorism and the propagation of hatred.
The act introduces a new, narrower definition of a Palestinian refugee, which may limit the number of people eligible for aid.
Independent financial audits of UNRWA by a third-party firm are required to prevent the use of funds by terrorist organizations.
The act limits the amount of U.S. contributions to UNRWA, linking them to contributions from other Arab League countries and a proportion of the UNHCR budget.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_1102
Sponsor: Rep. Roy, Chip [R-TX-21]
Process start date: 2023-02-17