The Palestinian Refugees In Jordan 1948-1957: A Tale of Resilience and Challenges

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The Palestinian refugee crisis emerged as a consequence of the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. Thousands of Palestinians were displaced from their homes and sought refuge in neighboring countries. Jordan, which was then under British administration, became a temporary home to a significant number of Palestinian refugees between 1948 and 1957. This article dives deep into the plight of Palestinian refugees in Jordan during this period, shedding light on their struggles, resilience, and the challenges they faced.

Background and Causes of the Palestinian Refugee Crisis:

To fully understand the situation of Palestinian refugees in Jordan, it is crucial to first explore the background and causes of the Palestinian refugee crisis. In 1948, the establishment of the State of Israel resulted in the displacement of around 700,000 Palestinians from their homes. This mass exodus led to a humanitarian crisis, with Palestinians seeking refuge in neighboring countries, including Jordan.

The Palestinian Refugees in Jordan 1948-1957 (Routledge Library Editions: Jordan Book 3)

by Avi Plascov (1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3533 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	417 pages

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The Challenges Faced by Palestinian Refugees:

The influx of Palestinian refugees presented numerous challenges for both the refugees themselves and the host country. The Jordanian government, already struggling with limited resources and infrastructure, faced immense pressure to accommodate and provide for the needs of the refugees. Overcrowded refugee camps lacking proper sanitation, healthcare, and educational facilities became the new reality for many Palestinians.

Despite these challenging conditions, the resilience and determination of the Palestinian refugees in Jordan were remarkable. They established community networks, initiated educational programs, and worked together as a unified group to support each other and build a sense of belonging. The refugees' resilience gave birth to a vibrant culture, effectively keeping their Palestinian identity alive.

International Efforts and the Role of UNRWA:

The international community recognized the urgency and gravity of the Palestinian refugee crisis. In 1949, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) was established to provide humanitarian assistance to Palestinian refugees. UNRWA played a crucial role in providing basic healthcare, education, and essential services to the refugees in Jordan, ultimately becoming the lifeline for many of them.

However, despite the efforts of UNRWA, the challenges continued to persist. The lack of sustainable solutions and the prolonged displacement of the Palestinian refugees further exacerbated their predicament. The refugees' hopes for a swift return to their homeland began to fade as years turned into decades.

The Socioeconomic Impact:

The presence of Palestinian refugees had a profound socioeconomic impact on Jordan. The strain on resources, coupled with the limited employment opportunities available, led to increased poverty and inequalities within the host country. The presence of a large refugee population also strained public services and infrastructure.

Despite these challenges, the Jordanian government and various international organizations worked together to address and mitigate the impact. Efforts were made to create employment opportunities for the refugees and promote economic development in the refugee camps. However, the magnitude of the refugee crisis posed significant long-term challenges that were difficult to overcome.

Towards a Sustainable Solution:

Decades have passed since the arrival of Palestinian refugees in Jordan, and a sustainable solution to the refugee crisis is still elusive. The plight of Palestinian refugees remains a topic of international concern, with ongoing discussions and negotiations to find a just and lasting resolution.

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The period between 1948 and 1957 marked a critical chapter in the history of Palestinian refugees in Jordan. Despite the challenges they faced, their resilience and determination resonated throughout the refugee camps. International efforts, particularly through UNRWA, played a significant role in alleviating some of the suffering, but a sustainable solution remains elusive. The story of Palestinian refugees in Jordan is a testament to human endurance and the importance of finding lasting resolutions to such humanitarian crises.

The Palestinian Refugees in Jordan 1948-1957 (Routledge Library Editions: Jordan Book 3)

by Avi Plascov (1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3533 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	417 pages

FREE

There is perhaps no aspect of the Arab-Israeli conflict that is more complex and more emotionally charged than the problem of the Palestinian refugees. The atmosphere surrounding the discussion has led to confusion, so that the facts have become unclear and the problems more difficult to treat. This book, first published in 1981, examines the complex interlocking issues that surround the topic of the Palestinian refugees in the country that adopted most of them – Jordan.