This weekend, Neve Shalom Wahat al-Salam was represented at a high-level international gathering in Paris, bringing together peacebuilders, diplomats, foreign ministers, and civil society leaders ahead of the G7 Summit.
Representing the village, Samah Salaime met with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot to discuss the importance of peace education, the role of the media, and Neve Shalom Wahat al-Salam’s unique experience as a living model of Jewish-Palestinian partnership and shared society.
Alongside Khouloud Ayuti and Rana Fahoum from ALLMEP, and more than 150 peacebuilders from across the region and around the world, Wahat al-Salam Neve Shalom contributed to discussions on how civil society can help advance a just and lasting peace, with particular attention given to the role of peace education and the need to move beyond the belief that military force alone can deliver security.
The village’s bilingual educational model was highlighted as an example of how education can foster understanding, trust, and a shared future. Participants also explored the role of the media in peacebuilding, including Neve Shalom Wahat al-Salam’s Peace Press project, which amplifies stories of cooperation, dialogue, and coexistence.
The gathering also coincided with the announcement of a new International Fund for Israeli-Palestinian Peace, launched by the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia—an encouraging step that reflects years of advocacy by peace organisations and civil society leaders.
As violence continues to dominate headlines, the discussions in Paris reinforced a message that Wahat al-Salam Neve Shalom has championed for decades: lasting peace is built through education, dialogue, and sustained investment in those working to create a shared future.
