How Gaza's summer camps teach youth more than just sports
Each year, organizers of summer camps in the Gaza Strip compete to lure youngsters to their program of activities — and to their ideology.
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Tens of thousands of children are signing up for the annual summer games in the Gaza Strip, sponsored by a variety of groups that sometimes have more in mind than entertainment.
Some parents are convinced that some camps are recruiting grounds for groups seeking to instill ideas in their children’s minds in the hope of attracting them to their ranks in the future. Some groups openly admit their agendas.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad attract the largest number of Palestinian children in Gaza. Enrollment in summer activities has been underway since early May.
Just a little more than a month remains before the activities begin. Associations and organizations are engaging in a heated competition to lure elementary and secondary school-age children. Each group has its own objective for the activities, which last for weeks.
