Oxfam Refuses to Share Details of Palestinian Staff in Gaza

Oxfam Refuses to Share Personal Data of Palestinian Staff with Israel

A UK-founded charity, Oxfam, has stated that it will not disclose personal details about its Palestinian staff to Israel, citing the country’s military actions in Gaza that have resulted in the deaths of over 500 aid workers. The decision comes as part of a broader effort by Israel to crack down on NGOs providing life-saving aid to Palestinians.

In January, Israel withdrew licenses from 37 aid groups, including Oxfam, Norwegian Refugee Council, and International Rescue Committee, citing non-compliance with new “security and transparency standards.” These standards require organizations to provide detailed information about their staff, operations, and funding. However, Oxfam has stated that it will not share sensitive personal data of its Palestinian employees.

According to Israel’s Ministry for Diaspora Affairs, the required information includes passport copies, resumes, and names of family members, including children. The ministry claims that it will reject organizations suspected of inciting racism or denying the state of Israel’s existence. Oxfam has called on the Israeli government to halt deregistration proceedings and lift measures obstructing humanitarian assistance.

The Palestinian NGOs Network (PNGO) has condemned organizations that have adhered to Israel’s demands, stating that complying with these rules poses a direct threat to the safety and security of local staff. Meanwhile, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has announced its willingness to share a defined list of Palestinian and international staff names subject to clear parameters prioritizing staff safety.

The International Rescue Committee is among the 37 aid groups affected by Israel’s actions, with Palestinians making up almost a fifth of all aid workers killed since records began.

Source: Al Jazeera