By: Annaliese Bowser

The Economic and Social Commission on Western Asia (ESCWA) has introduced a unique solution to sustainable development in Gaza, creating a trust territory within the Gaza Strip.

Trust territories were first seen following World War II, after the League of Nations dissolved. As they are defined within international law, trust territories are regions that are placed under the leadership of a higher authority, such as the United Nations (UN), after they have been determined to be unable to self-govern. They were established within the UN system with the goal of administering and guiding regions that were not self-governing. Reasons for this inability to self-govern were often due to colonialism or war. A trust territory has not been implemented in practice since 1994, when Palau gained independence. 

Representative Garrett Langmo of Egypt introduced the idea of utilizing a five-mile buffer zone that would be under UN control. This zone would run along the border of Egypt and Gaza. “We believe that this would be good because it will allow for aid to be distributed in a more efficient manner. One in 58 aid workers within Gaza has died, and 80 percent of aid entering Gaza has experienced some sort of looting. We think this would be a good way to ensure that this aid is distributed in a more efficient manner, and also give the UN a way to establish Palestinian institutions that will be crucial to long-term stability in the region,” said Representative Langmo. Representative Melissa Rasidovic of Egypt emphasizing the importance of this plan in regard to sustainably rebuilding Gaza, said, “If we keep people in the area of the Gaza Strip, we can rebuild, which is the end goal.” 

This plan has been well received throughout ESCWA, with Representative Meghan Bareis of the State of Palestine also agreeing to the measure. When asked their thoughts on the trust territory, Representative Bareis expressed their belief in the plan’s potential to assist in humanitarian aid issues in Gaza. “Working in tandem with other efforts to be a transitional mediator for the time being could help temporarily stabilize reconstruction efforts and the rehabilitation of people,” said Representative Bareis. This sentiment was echoed by the second Representative from the State of Palestine, Representative Joseph Zonsius who stated, “The unknown variable is Hamas; in this case, they could be the main problem within the situation. But I would believe that Israel would lessen strikes, or even stop, if a third party did take over.” 

As Representative Shadi Barham of Syria said, “The plan puts further diplomatic pressure on Israel, as they see the United Nations controlling the area.” As Israel has largely prevented aid from entering much of Palestine, will the pressure of the committee change Israel’s stance on allowing aid to enter Palestine or will they continue to be steadfast in their position? The ESCWA body voted to facilitate a 1.12, Participation by Non-Body Member States and International Organizations, to hear from Israel on the proposed plan. Members of ESCWA will be able to ask Israel questions and share their opinions on the plan.