Heads of Mission of the European Union and likeminded countries together with the Ministry of Education visited Ein Samiya community near Ramallah in light of the imminent threat of demolition of a donor-funded school, which currently provides access to education for 17 children in Ein Samiya and neighbouring herder communities.

During the visit, representatives met with community members, West Bank Protection Consortium (WBPC) partners, as well as representatives of the Education Cluster and civil society organisations active in the community. They elaborated on the impact the destruction of the school would have as well as on the threats facing schools throughout the West Bank.

On 15 January 2022, the construction of a donor funded purpose-built school was completed, serving 17 children today and is expected to serve more in the 2022-23 academic year. The school addresses the long-standing lack of access to education in Ein Samiya and the surrounding area.

“I am here today together with my fellow colleagues from the European Union and other likeminded countries to urge Israel to halt not only the demolition of Ein Samiya School, but all demolitions, evictions, and confiscations on occupied Palestinian land, including donor funded projects. The continued practice of demolitions and evictions in Area C and occupied East Jerusalem is in violation of international humanitarian law and must cease. Israel as the occupying power has the obligation to protect the population, including children rights. By pursuing these actions, notably in Area C representing 60% of the West Bank, the continuation of these policies violates international law, undermines the viability of the two-state solution, and the prospect for a lasting peace in the region”, said the European Union Representative Sven Kühn von Burgsdorff.

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Press release