UNFPA staff in uproar over cooperation agreement with Israel : Vince Chadwick, Colum Lynch / DEVEX

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Summary
UNFPA’s renewal of a 2016 memorandum of understanding with Israel’s development agency MASHAV on 11 June 2025 triggered a storm of internal protest. More than 150 staff signed a petition arguing the MoU jeopardizes the agency’s neutrality, credibility, and the safety of personnel working in Gaza, where Israeli attacks have left tens of thousands dead and devastated health infrastructure.

Deputy Executive Director Diene Keita issued an “unequivocal” apology to Arab-states staff for failing to consult them, yet petitioners demanded the MoU’s termination and resignations from those responsible. The row comes as UNFPA grapples with a $335 million funding gap after U.S. grant cancellations and the early departure of Executive Director Natalia Kanem on 15 July.

Quotes
“The renewal of the MoU — without consultation, transparency, or consideration of the dire ongoing context — was a decision that not only caused immense hurt to staff, but also deeply compromised UNFPA’s core values and the trust we place in its leadership.”

“I deeply regret the renewal of a technical MoU with Israel, at this time, [which] was not consulted and has caused pain for many of our staff. That was a mistake for which I unequivocally apologize.” — Diene Keita

The petition says the move “has placed our reputation, credibility, and neutrality at risk.”