UN Finds 645 Obstacles to Movement in West Bank

I'll never forget watching a pregnant woman and an elderly man struggle with their groceries as they climbed over boulders placed on the hilly path to their village. We had just shared a bus from Bethlehem. The boulders were just a few of the obstacles Palestinians encounter on their daily routes to school, work and visiting family. Now the UN Office of Coordination for Humanitarian Affaiirs (OCHA) has documented 645 obstacles in the West Bank, which is smaller than the state of Delaware. These obstacles divide communities and prevent access to livelihoods and essential services such as health care and schools. They prevent farmers from reaching their fields and tending their crops. Israel's goal in placing them is to make life so difficult for Palestinians that they will leave. OCHA has published a helpful interactive map featuring images and specific data for every documented obstacle. There is also a fact sheet which should be shared widely. As advocates for justice, we can refer to these important tools when we meet with our elected officials and with our friends and neighbors. These are amazing resources. Let's use them!