The redirection of funds from UNRWA’s general budget to projects and emergencies is a tactic used by Donor States to exert political pressure on the Agency, with grave consequences for Palestinian refugees.28 In 2016, UNRWA spent $1.3 billion on education, its largest area of spending, followed by relief and social services, all needs falling within its general fund.29 The diversion of donations away from this fund necessarily limits UNRWA’s ability to perform its primary functions, as does the capping of contributions more generally. Photo: Palestinians demand support for UNRWA from the international community. Bethlehem, 2015 (©BADIL) Chart source: https://www.unrwa.org/how-you-can-help/government-partners/funding-trends/donor-charts 28 Maya al-Orzza, “UNRWA has been in crisis since its inception”. 29 Annie Slemrod, “What you need to know now about cuts to the UN’s agency for Palestine refugees”. 12