Conditions in Palestinian Refugee Camps: Misery Amidst Charity and Hope
Why are there Palestinian refugee camps? They left 76 years ago! Only the very stupid still think that there should be these camps! THINK. It is not hard.
My Personal Reflection
My direct experience is outdated as it is more than 32 years since I saw such a camp with my own eyes. What I saw was pure misery for everybody. Those camps should have been evacuated many years before I left Israel. The international community is paying enormous amounts of money to the Palestinians, especially via UNRWA. Corruption and political dark interests are keeping those camps in place.
Living Conditions in Refugee Camps
Basic necessities are generally supplied by the UNCHR, but conditions are pretty miserable. Nothing can describe the misery of living in a refugee camp. Imagine a life where moments of joy are replaced by the constant reminder of your circumstances. You might forget the slump you live in while enjoying your family and friends and quiet moments, but these fleeting joys evaporate once you gaze around you, seeing a Human Zoo as you mostly live on charity or if you're lucky, have a family member who works and sends some money. It's a life because you have no other choice but death. It's a life that lets people risk trying to escape on leaky boats and frozen hills.
When I was young in the camps in Lebanon, it was a world of frequent air raids, death, funerals, explosions, and all the horrors of a slow death of hope under extreme conditions. Visit a camp and see for yourself. I've visited other countries and seen poverty, and even visited horrific places from WW2. What humans do to each other is horrific.
Minimal medical services mean that many easily curable diseases become a death sentence if you can't afford the treatment or medication. Bad food and many live on handovers from UNRWA rations or other organizations. Schools are worse than prisons in some cases.
Deheisheh Refugee Camp: A Cautious Look
Conditions vary from camp to camp. For instance, Deheisheh refugee camp near Bethlehem is not one of the world's most miserable spots. You can see a picture of the camp here: Deheisheh refugee camp. However, it's important to remember that each camp has its unique challenges.
These camps are a living testimony to the ongoing struggle and resilience of the Palestinian people. While they receive support and charity, the conditions they endure are a grim reminder of the systemic issues that need to be addressed.
Conditions in Palestinian refugee camps are a complex issue. As with any humanitarian crisis, it's important to approach it with an open mind and a readiness to engage with the broader humanitarian and political context.
Conclusion
Whether you believe in the permanence of these camps or see them as a temporary solution, the reality is that life in these camps is a testament to the resilience and dignity of the human spirit. Your support and understanding can make a significant difference in improving the lives of those living in these camps.