Experiences in Protecting Socioeconomic Life During the War on Gaza

Abstract

This paper presents a Gazan researcher personal experiences in protecting elements of the social economy in his surroundings during more than 18 months of aggression on Gaza. The study emphasises that efforts to sustain life must continue as part of the resilience process, especially since Palestinians in Gaza have nothing left to lose. Poverty rates have exceeded 80%, according to UNRWA statistics from August 2023, while extreme poverty—including food insecurity—has risen to 60%, according to the same source. This is a result of one of the harshest blockades in the world imposed on Palestine, particularly the Gaza Strip—an economic and financial blockade, restrictions on movement and trade, and a ban on travel for medical treatment or tourism.