Norway signs new two-year agreement with UNRWA

Press release | Date: 13/01/2026 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Norway today signed a new two-year agreement with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Under the agreement, Norway will provide core funding of NOK 175 million per year for the period 2026-2027.

The agreement was signed during a meeting in Oslo between Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust, State Secretary Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik and UNRWA's Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini. Through this agreement, Norway reaffirms its strong and long-term commitment to Palestine refugees. In addition, Norway will conclude an agreement with UNRWA to provide NOK 100 million in support of its humanitarian work in 2026. Norway's total support to UNRWA will therefore amount to NOK 275 million in 2026.

'Palestine refugees are facing a dramatic situation, exacerbated by war, conflict and regional tensions. UNRWA is absolutely essential in ensuring that millions of Palestine refugees have access to basic services such as education, healthcare and emergency assistance. Norway remains steadfast in its support for both the Palestine refugees and UNRWA's work,' said Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust.

UNRWA provides basic services and humanitarian assistance to around six million Palestine refugees in Palestine, Lebanon, Syria and Jordan, and is a cornerstone of humanitarian efforts across the region. The organisation's staff and local knowledge are critical to the life-saving humanitarian response in Gaza. A large majority of UN member states recently voted to renew UNRWA's mandate.

'UNRWA faces major political and financial challenges. This agreement sends a clear signal of our solidarity with the Palestine refugees and our support for the UN decision to extend UNRWA's mandate. Ensuring that UNRWA has sufficient resources to fulfil this mandate is vital both for individuals and for stability across the Middle East,' said State Secretary Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik.

UNRWA was established by the UN General Assembly in 1949. Since then, it has provided essential services such as education, healthcare, shelter and emergency assistance to Palestine refugees in Palestine, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon. Norway has for many years been among UNRWA's most important and committed supporters.