Years of conflict, entrenched political divides, and repeated failures of peace initiatives have re¬sulted in ongoing violence, widespread hardship for both Palestinians and Israelis, and the per¬sistent denial of Palestinian rights and self-determination. Since the Oslo Accords, successive gen¬erations have grown up largely apart, with minimal interaction and deepening mistrust. The lack of sustained peacebuilding efforts has exacerbated hostilities, culminating in the devastating es¬calation that followed the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack.
This project seeks to counter these destructive dynamics by generating momentum for a credible path toward peace rooted in broad-based public engagement. Through evidence-driven research on the viability of a two-state solution, the initiative provides a solid foundation for advocacy and educational outreach. Despite the given obstacles, civil society actors are increasingly motivated to engage in (grassroots) peacebuilding, envision alternative pathways for the future, and strengthen Palestinian agency in shaping the broader political narrative.
Besides its research component, the project also promotes constructive dialogue that can help shape public opinion and pave the way for thinking of a peaceful future. PASSIA will thereby serve as a platform, bringing together diverse perspectives to explore innovative approaches to conflict resolution and peacebuilding within the two-state paradigm.
Through targeted advocacy, PASSIA further works to inform stakeholders and duty bearers, chal¬lenge divisive rhetoric, and build support for a just and negotiated solution among diverse audi¬ences and the general public. Capacity-building empowers young Palestinians to take an active role in promoting peace. Recognizing the importance of a vibrant and empowered civil society and that the communication of related values and principles is most effective if it begins during youth, PASSIA will provide tools and training to increase young Palestin¬ians’ under¬standing, skills and knowledge of peace and conflict resolution issues. This includes the formation of a “youth think tank” to enhance young people’s partic¬ipation in policy formulation and imple¬mentation.
