Askar Camp

Askar camp, established in 1950, borders the Nablus municipality in the northern West Bank. The camp population grew significantly between 1950 and 1960. Some residents subsequently settled in an area one kilometre away that is now known as New Askar. Residents of New Askar originally utilized many facilities in Askar camp.

*Askar refugee camp. © 2015 UNRWA Photo by Dominiek Benoot*

However, as the refugee population in New Askar increased, UNRWA began providing education and health services in this locality. After the Oslo Accords, Askar camp fell under Palestinian control (Area A) while New Askar fell under joint Palestinian and Israeli control (Area B).

Askar camp is among the most densely populated West Bank camps. Overcrowding and unemployment are among the most serious issues. Poor shelters and cramped living conditions offer no privacy for residents in their personal lives, adding to the residents’ physical and psychological strain. Despite its challenges, Askar camp has an active civil society with numerous community-based organizations in the camp.

For more information about Askar Camp (click here)

REFUGEE CAMPS IN the West Bank

We provide services in 19 Palestine refugee camps in the West Bank. UNRWA does not administer or police the camps, as this is the responsibility of the host authorities.

Aida Camp

Am'ari camp

Aqbat Jabr Camp

Arroub Camp

Askar Camp

Balata Camp

Beit Jibrin Camp

Camp No. 1 Camp

Deir 'Ammar Camp

Dheisheh Camp

Ein el-Sultan Camp

Far'a Camp

Fawwar Camp

Jalazone Camp

Jenin Camp

Kalandia Camp

Nur Shams Camp

Shu'fat Camp

Tulkarm Camp

Quick Facts

Refugees in camps

Population density in the camp is estimated at 155,462 per sq km
There are 23,760* Palestine Refugees registered in the camp as of 2022
* This figure does not claim to represent the actual number of Palestine Refugees present in the camp but merely the number of Palestine Refugees registered with UNRWA in the camp