Palestinians’ life in Al Aroub refugee camp
Al Aroub camp, which is between Bethlehem and Hebron, is one of the many Palestinian refugees
camps established after the 1948 Arab-Israeli conflict. The camp, administered by the United Nations
Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), has become a symbol of
resilience, where generations of displaced Palestinians continue to live under challenging conditions.
Al Aroub refugee camp was established in 1949 to house Palestinians who were displaced during the
Nakba, when the state of Israel was formed and hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were forced
to flee their homes.
Originally intended as a temporary solution, the camp has evolved into a densely
populated urban area over the decades. Initially, residents lived in tents and temporary shelters, but
these were then replaced with concrete buildings. Today, the camp houses around 16.000 registered
refugees.
Daily Life and Living Conditions
Life in Al Aroub camp is marked by overcrowding and limited access to basic services. Homes are
packed closely together and the streets are often too narrow. Water shortages are common, with
residents often receiving water only intermittently, which affects daily activities like cooking,
cleaning and personal hygiene. Electricity cuts are also frequent, especially during the winter months.
Despite these hardships, the community exhibits a strong sense of solidarity, with extended families
often living in the same households or nearby to support each other.
UNRWA provides basic services, such as healthcare and education, but the resources are stretched
thin. Schools in the camp are overcrowded, with classrooms often holding more students than they
can accommodate. There is a high unemployment rate, particularly among young people, with
limited opportunities for stable jobs due to the political and economic challenges posed by the Israeli
occupation and restrictions on movement.
Due to its location along a major Israeli road and the proximity to Israeli settlements, the camp
frequently experiences military incursions, which contribute to a sense of insecurity. Young people
are often subject to clashes with Israeli soldiers, house raids and arrests. As a result, many grow up
in a climate of fear, instability, and frustration.
Education, while highly valued, is not always a
sufficient escape route, as job opportunities are few. Despite this, there are youth initiatives and
community groups aimed at fostering hope, providing training and encouraging young people to
engage in social and cultural activities to maintain a sense of normalcy.
Community Spirit and Resilience
Amid the struggles, the community of Al Aroub camp shows immense resilience. Families come
together to celebrate cultural traditions, religious events and weddings, creating moments of joy
amid the hardships. Local organizations, often in partnership with international NGOs, work
tirelessly to provide services like mental health support, vocational training and recreational
activities for children.
Despite the many challenges, life in Al Aroub camp is a testament to the strength and perseverance
of the Palestinian people. The camp remains a vivid reminder of the unresolved refugee issue and
the ongoing conflict that continues to shape the lives of generations of Palestinians.
