Gaza Strip, on November 3, 2024. Photo: Majdi Fathi/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Gaza Strip, on November 3, 2024. Photo: Majdi Fathi/NurPhoto via Getty Images

As war and humanitarian crises unfold in Gaza, Syria and Lebanon, a new Middle East is emerging. How can local humanitarian actors rise to the challenge? What role do they play in addressing urgent needs, fostering long-term solutions and promoting reconciliation amidst turmoil? And how can they navigate the complexities introduced by the recent UNRWA ban?

Speakers

  • Karam Abi Yazbeck, Regional Coordinator for Caritas Middle East and North Africa, sharing first-hand testimony directly from the ground
  • Jørgen Jensehaugen, Senior Researcher at the Peace Research Institute Oslo, providing a snapshot of the region's shifting geopolitical landscape and the implications of the UNRWA ban
  • Bjørg Sandkjær, State Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Raymond Johansen, Secretary General of Norwegian People's Aid
  • Arne Næss-Holm, Director of International Programmes, Norwegian Church Aid
  • Ingrid Rosendorf Joys, Secretary General, Caritas Norway

The discussion will be moderated by Cindy Horst, Research Professor, Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO).

This event is a collaboration between the Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO), Caritas Norway, Norwegian People's Aid and Norwegian Church Aid.