VOICED: Gazans scavange rubbish dumps

In the Gaza Strip, many residents, like Khaled, resort to scavenging at rubbish dumps to find items of value due to the dire economic situation. The Israeli blockade, imposed since Hamas took control in 2007, has led to a collapsed economy with high unemployment and poverty rates. Despite the dangers, including exposure to hospital waste, scavenging remains a necessity for survival as the blockade continues.

What motivates the scavengers in Gaza to search through rubbish dumps?

• A government initiative

• Sheer desperation due to economic collapse

• Environmental concerns

• A desire for adventure

What major event in 2007 significantly affected the Gaza Strip's economy?

• A natural disaster

• The imposition of a blockade by Israel

• The introduction of new technology

• The discovery of oil

What percentage of people in Gaza live below the poverty line?

• 80%

• 50%

• 60%

• 70%

What type of waste do scavengers in Gaza risk encountering?

• Construction waste

• Electronic waste

• Hospital waste

• Agricultural waste

Why is the work of scavengers in Gaza likely to continue?

• Because it is highly profitable

• Due to the ongoing blockade

• Due to government support

• Because it is a tradition