Published by:The Palestinian Institute for Public Opinion Research

Abstract

This analytical report highlights the empirical findings from a field survey conducted across the Gaza Strip. The research aims to convey the lived reality and perspectives of the local population to the global community, focusing on geographical demographics, age distribution, critical aid shortages, and public perception regarding the equity of humanitarian aid distribution.

Methodology & Demographics

The survey surveyed residents across various sub-regions of the Gaza Strip to evaluate public opinion on essential services and humanitarian aid efficiency.

• Geographical Distribution:
  • 50.79% reside in Gaza City.
  • 22.91% reside in Khan Younis.
  • 21.47% reside in the Middle Area (Central Camps).
  • 3.53% reside in Rafah.
  • 1.31% represent other/unspecified areas.
• Age Profile:
  • 29.84% belong to the 35–44 age bracket.
  • 28.53% are older than 45 years.
  • 25.26% are aged between 25–34.
  • 15.31% represent young adults aged 18–24.
  • 1.05% unclassified/other.

Key Findings

• Primary Relief and Supply Shortages:
  • 42.93% of respondents identified tents and shelter supplies as their most critical missing requirement.
  • 24.61% reported an acute shortage of clothing.
  • 17.02% highlighted a severe lack of meat and poultry.
  • 8.77% prioritized medical supplies and medications.
  • 4.06% noted flour as their primary missing item.
  • 2.62% listed other specific supplies.
• Perception of Aid Distribution Equity:
  • 45.16% stated that aid is not distributed fairly at all.
  • 32.85% indicated that aid reaches residents to a very small extent.
  • 14.40% noted that aid reaches residents to some extent, observing that some
    portion is utilized unlawfully.
  • 6.28% believed aid reaches residents to a large extent, serving civilian needs
    properly.
  • 1.31% offered no definitive assessment.

Key Takeaways

• Acute Shelter Crisis: Over 40% of the population identifies basic shelter and tents as
  their primary missing necessity, highlighting an escalating housing and protection crisis that
  requires immediate humanitarian intervention.
• Widespread Institutional Distrust: An overwhelming majority (over 78%) perceives aid
  distribution as highly unfair or minimally effective, pointing to a severe breakdown in logistics
  and equity.
• Basic Needs Disparity: The priority shift toward fundamental survival goods—such as
  shelter, clothing, and essential food items—reflects the continuous exhaustion of household
  reserves across all demographic sectors in the Gaza Strip.

Conclusion

The survey highlights a substantial disparity between current humanitarian assistance and
the actual needs of Gaza’s population. Shelter and basic living supplies remain the most
critical unmet demands, while an overwhelming majority (78.01% combined) expresses deep
concern over the lack of equity and effectiveness in aid distribution. International institutions
and humanitarian bodies are urged to reform distribution channels and ensure direct,
transparent allocation based on immediate population needs.