A. Executive Summary
In response to the ongoing conflict in Palestine, a strategic meeting was convened on November 1st, 2023, comprising prominent representatives from Pakistan’s leading non-profit organizations, philanthropists, and key stakeholders (the Group). The primary objective of this meeting was to devise a comprehensive plan of action aimed at delivering humanitarian relief to ease the suffering of those affected by the crisis in Palestine. During the above meeting, it was agreed that key suggestions would be provided by honorable members of the Group to help in preparing a Policy Framework for systematically taking effective actions as emergency assistance to our critically suffered brothers and sisters in Palestine. Following are the consolidated suggestions/recommendations shared by the Group:
B. Recommendations and Suggestions
Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan:
- Establish and operate a field hospital near Gaza in Egypt.
- Arrange transportation of relief items via at least 5 charter planes, coordinated through NDMA.
- Seek governmental facilitation for smooth cash transfers to partner organizations in Egypt for local procurement of essential goods and their transport to Gaza, and streamlining visa processes.
- Coordinate with Pakistan Red Crescent for collaboration with their counterparts in Egypt and Gaza.
Akhuwat:
- Establish a nationwide mechanism for in-kind support, including medicines, surgical equipment, and dry food collection.
- Collaborate with NDMA for logistic and administrative support.
- Facilitate direct connections between Pakistani and Egyptian Foreign Ministries to streamline visa processes and ensure efficient transportation of relief goods to Gaza.
- Maintain transparency and efficiency throughout the relief activities.
JDC:
- Initiate a nationwide media campaign to raise awareness about the Gaza War Victims.
- Set up donation stalls in major cities for public contributions.
- Engage government officials and explore viable financial aid solutions for Gaza and Egypt.
Dr. Shakeel Khan (Co-Chairman, Pakistan Development Network):
- To address the critical shortage of essential medical supplies and surgical instruments in Gaza, explore the ways in procuring these from Egypt and concurrently arrange from elsewhere.
- Expedite logistical facilitation through authorities in Islamabad and Egypt.
- Ensure proactive coordination with relevant groups, including UN agencies and NGOs, for timely transportation of supplies to Gaza.
- Establish a robust documentation process for transparency and accountability.
- Conduct through Pakistan Embassy in Egypt a comprehensive needs assessment before deploying professionals/volunteers and relief items to Egypt.
Dr. Saeed Akhtar (Chairman, PKLI):
- Avoid involving NDMA or the Egyptian government to prevent potential issues of warehouse dumping in Egypt.
- Establish a field hospital/camp near the Gaza Border and, when feasible, move operations directly into Gaza.
- Collaborate with partners providing relief within Gaza.
- Develop short-term, medium-term, and long-term plans, recognizing the prolonged nature of the conflict.
C. Way Forward
Mr. Abdus Shakoor and Dr. Asif Mahmood Jah will provide their feedback on the suggestions. Dr. Tariq Cheema will prioritize proposed actions, forming the basis for a comprehensive policy framework to be developed by Dr. Amjad Saqib. Mr. Khawaja Saad Rafique will coordinate with the Prime Minister’s Office for the submission of the policy framework.
D. Conclusion
This collective initiative underscores commitment of Pakistanis to providing effective humanitarian relief to the people of Palestine during this crisis. Through careful planning, transparent execution, and unwavering dedication, the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders aim to make a significant impact in alleviating the suffering of those affected by the conflict in Gaza.
