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Gazans' inability to buy gifts affects social relationships

Gazans are facing harsh living conditions with little money to spend, which is increasingly affecting social relationships in a society where buying gifts for family and friends when visiting their homes is part of the culture.
Palestinians shop in a market ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip June 17, 2015. REUTERS/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa






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GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — The Gaza Strip’s financial crises, along with the continuing economic deterioration, cast a shadow on the most basic aspects of Gazans’ social life. Residents are hesitant these days to visit their family, friends and neighbors.

Traditionally, those visiting the homes of others buy a gift for the host. However, due to the harsh living conditions and the lack of purchasing power, Gazans' social lives are starting to be affected, with family ties being severed and people isolating themselves to avoid embarrassment caused by poverty.

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