This investigative report examines the profound transformation of Gaza’s economy as a result of the genocidal
war, highlighting its shift from a production- and labor-based economy to what has become a “survival economy,” where meeting basic daily needs has taken precedence amid the near-total collapse of productive sectors.
Theinvestigation, prepared by journalist Arwa Ashour and published by Raya FM, presents compelling testimonies from business owners, workers, and professionals who lost their livelihoods and were forced to abandon their occupations in search of alternative means of survival. It also draws on data and reports from international organizations and economic experts to document the unprecedented economic contraction in the Gaza Strip and its devastating impact on employment and household incomes.
The report further examines the rapid expansion of informal day-to-day work, soaring unemployment rates, and the growing dependence of most households on humanitarian assistance, while exploring the long-term implications for the Palestinian economy and the prospects for economic recovery and reconstruction.
This work highlights the importance of investigative and in-depth journalism in documenting the economic and social transformations resulting from the genocidal war on Gaza and exposing their impact on Palestinians’ lives, thereby contributing to greater public awareness and encouraging informed discussion on economic recovery and accountability.
This investigation is part of the outputs of the “Strengthening Independent Journalism and Media Networking in Palestine” initiative, launched by the Palestine Journalism Hub with support from the European Endowment for Democracy (EED). The initiative aims to empower journalists to produce high-quality professional content, strengthen cooperation with media institutions, expand publication opportunities, and reach wider audiences. It also supports co-publishing and the development of effective media networks that enhance the presence and effectiveness of independent journalism in Palestinian society.