In the framework of the EuroMed Youth Exchange program, “Active Citizenship for Peace” is an international youth exchange project for intercultural dialogue aimed at promoting understanding among youths from Palestine, Republic of Ireland, Israel and the UK. The project sought to help each participant of the 20 participants to master new skills regarding active citizenship to better challenge reality and to play a leading role in their communities. The project permitted each participant ample opportunity to advance constructive contributions such as exchanging experiences and personal knowledge.

During an 8 day exchange in East Jerusalem, 20 participants from the partner countries were gathered. The exchange focused on resolving ethnic and religious violence, ascertaining an understanding of the roots of the Palestinian Israeli conflict and the environmental issues germane to Palestine and Israel. Participants explored these issues through a series of exercises that examined Active Citizenship and the potential role young people can play in conflict resolution. In addition to developing their skills, the participants of the project have worked together on setting action plans to enhance their roles within their communities and to build on this exchange experience.