In 2025, and as part of this project, PASSIA launched its Youth Think Tank, an initiative targeting Jerusalemite youth aged 18–29. The Think Tank was designed to provide a safe and inclusive space where young Jerusalemites could freely express their views, engage in critical discussions, and reflect on issues affecting Jerusalem and their future in the city. The initiative brought together a committed and diverse group of participants who meet twice a month to share their lived experiences and collectively examine the realities of daily life in Jerusalem.
The meetings addressed a wide range of themes, beginning with explorations of what Jerusalem represents to today’s youth. Participants reflected on their emotional attachment to the city while also discussing the political, social, and economic challenges they face as young Palestinians living in Jerusalem. In addition, the sessions adopted a debate-based format to encourage critical thinking and active engagement with broader political and historical issues. For instance, discussions examined the concept of “historical right” and how Palestinians articulate and present their narrative and claims to the international community.
These discussions enabled participants to present their personal stories of belonging, identity, and struggle, while fostering a sense of collective understanding and shared purpose. Overall, the Youth Think Tank functioned as a dynamic platform for dialogue, critical analysis, and collaborative problem-solving. Thus, this initiative contributed to PASSIA’s mission of deepening understanding of Palestinian perspectives and reaffirmed its commitment to empowering youth and encouraging their active engagement in public and political discourse.