For Immediate Release
Press Release
To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the United Nations International Day of Peace, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) convened peacebuilders, including three USAID-supported grantees who are also Nobel Peace Prize nominees.
During this event in Jerusalem, the three Nobel Prize nominees, as well as new USAID partners funded by the Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act (MEPPA), highlighted their work to build better linkages in the local peacebuilding community.
“Since October 7th, our hope and resilience withstand our pain, anger, grief, and lead us in our shared journey toward peace. Our mission has become increasingly urgent and we stand resolute and determined—more than ever—to continue and lead the way, speaking in one voice,” said Women Wage Peace and Women of the Sun, both Nobel Peace Prize nominees.
Eliza Mayo, Deputy Director of the Arava Institute, another Nobel Peace Prize nominee, said, "In these difficult and traumatic times, people-to-people diplomacy, including the implementation of crucial practical solutions, maintains and strengthens cooperation and trust, giving hope for peace."
USAID implements MEPPA programs to promote people-to-people peacebuilding and grassroots economic cooperation. These programs advance shared community-building, peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians through cooperation on issues of common concern, including health care, economic growth, women’s empowerment, technology, and the environment. MEPPA partners represent a diverse range of Israeli and Palestinian civil society organizations.
“As we approach the first anniversary of October 7th, marking the International Day of Peace is deeply significant because the need for peace has never felt more urgent. The events of the last year have made it abundantly clear why we must keep working to bring people together to resolve differences and establish peaceful ways of living side by side. It’s an honor to celebrate those individuals who have redoubled their efforts to build peace among communities. Through MEPPA, we will continue working with partners to address the evolving needs from this conflict, sending a strong message that peace is not only possible but essential for building shared communities, security, and coexistence between Palestinians and Israelis,” said USAID Mission Director Amy Tohill-Stull.
The U.S. Congress enacted MEPPA in 2020 and authorizes $50 million each year for five years. To date, MEPPA has given 29 awards to bring together Palestinians and Israelis. For more information on these awards and USAID’s work in the West Bank and Gaza, visit: https://www.usaid.gov/west-bank-and-gaza/meppa.