Project description
As the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues, enmity easily escalates between these populations. From an early age, Israelis and Palestinians learn to see each other as 'the enemy'. The Christian organisation Musalaha offers Israeli and Palestinian children the opportunity to meet during a summer camp. By eating together, doing (game) activities and studying the Bible, they learn to break stereotypes and build relationships with each other.
Why this project?
Because there is little interaction between the two populations, mutual misconceptions and stereotypes are rarely challenged. Unfortunately, hatred fuels painful experiences on both sides. Personal encounters are crucial for taking steps towards genuine reconciliation in imitation of Christ. Musalaha is the only religious organisation working with Israelis and Palestinians since 1990 to build relationships and begin a process of reconciliation.
Impact
When children learn to break down barriers of hatred at a young age, a new generation will emerge to transform society, breaking the cycle of hostility. The influence of these summer camps can be seen in today's camp leaders who themselves participated in the camps as children and are now committed to doing so.
What can we learn?
Musalaha has developed a model of reconciliation based on years of experience. This involves a process with a number of stages. The process always starts with relationship building, with a willingness to listen to each other. Through regular follow-ups with the participants, relationships are maintained and deepened. And the participants, in turn, spread the message of reconciliation to others.
