联合国西亚经济社会委员会-加沙战争：预期对巴勒斯坦国的社会经济影响（英）-2023.11-16页_1mb

Summary of Gaza War Impacts

• Overview: The Gaza war has caused unprecedented loss of life and extensive infrastructure damage, leading to severe short-term and long-term socioeconomic consequences for Palestine. By November 5, 2023, over 9,770 deaths were reported in Gaza, with a high proportion of children and women affected. This has triggered massive displacement and a humanitarian crisis.

• Immediate Humanitarian and Economic Consequences:

  • Economic activity is severely disrupted due to the siege, with approximately 390,000 jobs lost and GDP estimated to decline by 4-12% in 2023, depending on war duration.
  • Poverty is expected to rise by 20-45%, and the Human Development Index (HDI) could decline, setting Palestine back by 11-16 years due to reduced education, health, and income.
  • Infrastructure damage includes over 45% of hospitals and 40% of schools destroyed or damaged, exacerbating health crises linked to fuel shortages and inadequate supplies.
  • Humanitarian access is limited, with insufficient aid reaching Gaza.

• Long-term Socioeconomic and Human Development Effects:

  • Reconstruction will be slow and challenging due to funding shortages, restrictions on resources, and the ban on rebuilding materials.
  • Multidimensional poverty has increased sharply, with nearly all Gazan residents considered poor, and female-headed households facing additional vulnerability.
  • Food insecurity and malnutrition risks are elevated, potentially leading to long-term health issues, including cognitive impairment in children.
  • The economic impact is likely to persist, with lasting effects on investment, trade, and productivity.

• Key Findings and Recommendations: Addressing these impacts requires a swift ceasefire, sustained humanitarian aid, and prioritized post-war reconstruction to mitigate long-term deprivation and promote recovery. Immediate action is crucial to alleviate suffering and prevent further decline in human development.