Finland to end funding for UNRWA amid Hamas infiltration allegations
Finland announced it will stop funding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) by the end of 2026, following similar moves by the U.S. and Sweden. The decision comes amid investigations by the USAID Office of Inspector General and NGO UN Watch into alleged Hamas ties and participation in the Oct. 7 attacks. Finland's foreign ministry said no decision has been made on alternative channels for aid.
Finland's foreign ministry confirmed its financial support will cease by late 2026, though no alternative international partners have been chosen to address urgent regional needs. This move follows similar funding freezes by the United States and Sweden.
The USAID Office of Inspector General is investigating about 1,500 UNRWA personnel for alleged terror involvement, with 108 staff referred for possible suspension. A senior U.S. official stated these findings are prompting other nations to rethink UNRWA's exclusivity, while the Board of Peace seeks to substitute the agency with vetted groups.
The withdrawal of funding could significantly disrupt humanitarian aid delivery to Palestinian civilians in Gaza, potentially worsening food and medical shortages. It may also pressure other donor nations to reassess their commitments, leading to a fragmented aid landscape. As Finland and others pivot, the transition to alternative channels could create temporary gaps in services, affecting the most vulnerable populations who depend on consistent relief operations.