The delegation was received by Deputy Director for Program Affairs, Hamdi Shaqqura and Deputy Director for Administrative and Legal Affairs, Iyad Alami of PCHR.

In this introductory meeting, the priorities of the respective organisations were outlined and common interests identified, particularly in relation to Gaza.

Mr. Merzouk outlined ECHO’s contributions this year of €40 million to the oPt; used to feed and protect the most vulnerable, to provide access to healthcare and psychosocial support and for the provision of clean water. He said that the contribution of ECHO and others helps to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable Palestinians but the closure of Gaza needs to end to allow economic recovery and less dependency on humanitarian aid.

Mr. Shaqqura gave an analysis of the difficulties faced by the people of Gaza arising from the occupation and the closure. He outlined PCHR’s work in the area of protection, particularly legal assistance, representation and advocacy- nationally and internationally.

Serious concern was expressed by both parties at the deteriorating conditions in Gaza. There was mutual agreement that while aid is vital to avert a man-made humanitarian disaster, the current model is not sustainable. In addition, while humanitarian donations are needed to alleviate suffering, they must be associated with advocacy at all levels to bring about the desired change to end the closure of Gaza.

In the analysis of both parties, the causative factors leading to the circumstance in the oPt need to be addressed as a matter of the highest priority. A commitment was made to seek collaborative ways of furthering this shared agenda.

The meeting was a fruitful first meeting and PCHR looks forward to working constructively with ECHO towards the accomplishment of shared goals.