"Possibilities for Dialogue under Occupation: The Case of Israel and Palestine"

Since the second Intifada in 2000, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been trapped in another cycle of violence and a political deadlock. Palestinian and Israeli peace and advocacy groups have been struggling to mobilize their constituencies to exercise pressure on their political leaders. Among these groups, there are few initiatives for people to people dialogue and tremendous challenges in carrying out these types of activities. There are many voices on both sides that oppose such contact programs. Their impact and relevancy are constantly questioned. This presentation will explore basic questions such as: should Palestinian and Israeli activists, educators and peace builders, engage in such activities at all? What are the challenges facing Israeli and Palestinians who participate in dialogue? What are the potential for success of dialogue activities under the Israeli occupation?

Prof. Mohammed Abu-Nimer

International Peace and Conflict Resolution

Peacebuilding and Development Institute

American University