US pulls funds for Palestinian Sesame Street

Sesame Street is ‘must see’ viewing for some children around the world but the future of the Palestinian version is under threat because of a lack of US funding.

As a result of UNESCO’s recognition of the Palestinian drive for statehood, US aid was cut off and the show’s message of peace and tolerance is only spread through repeats.

Daoud Kutab, executive producer of the Palestinian Sesame Street, said: “Palestinian children have grown to like these wonderful creatures that light up their televisions and teach things like friendship, tolerance and mutual respect.”

Last month some US funding was restored to other projects but education programmes are not among the priorities so it is doubtful that any will go to the show. In the meantime, its puppets have been sent to New York for repair at the children’s workshop until this latest twist in the Middle East conflict is settled.

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