UN Official Fired After Criticizing Israeli Policies in Gaza

A senior official with the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) stated that his criticism of Israeli policies in Gaza led to his dismissal. Ben Davis, Director of the Rural Transformation and Gender Equality Division, was informed in July that his contract would not be renewed after 26 years with the agency, citing a violation of neutrality rules. Davis explained that he was accused of organizing silent protests against the starvation and famine conditions in Gaza, which are weekly demonstrations held by FAO staff in Rome.

Davis also faced criticism for contributing to a report on food availability in Gaza and humanitarian law, published in May. He stated that they were asked to withdraw the report and were not permitted to reference humanitarian law. The Director-General of the FAO, Qu Dongyu, issued a warning to staff on Tuesday against engaging in human rights-related campaigns within the agency, suggesting those interested should go to the UN Human Rights office in Geneva.

Qu Dongyu further warned that he would dismiss senior officials involved in political work and that staff must adhere to the FAO's constitution and regulations. When asked if he believed he was the target of the Director-General's remarks, Davis confirmed, stating that Qu Dongyu had previously reprimanded him publicly for being too involved in politics. Davis expressed concern over the Director-General's statements about further dismissals, noting that while hundreds participated in silent protests at their peak, only 30 to 40 staff members now participate weekly.