The Geneva Accord: Empowering Israeli and Palestinian Youth to Lead a Binational Confederation for Peace

On the United Nations International Day for Peace, celebrated on September 21, 2024, the Global Challenges Forum (GCF) Foundation issued The Geneva Proclamation. In line with Geneva’s long-standing role as a center for diplomacy and conflict resolution, this proclamation signals a renewed effort to advance global peace, specifically focusing on one of the most protracted conflicts of our time—the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Geneva, often called the “Capital of Peace,” has served as a neutral platform for international dialogue and the formulation of significant peace agreements. Recognizing this legacy, the GCF Foundation, headquartered in Geneva, has committed to leading new pathways for peaceful coexistence through The Geneva Accord.  This innovative framework considers a possible binational confederation approach as a new foundation for peace. This Accord draws from Swiss values of neutrality, inclusivity, and respect for international law.

The Geneva Accord: Pathways to Sustainable Peace

The Geneva Accord introduces a binational state model based on equality and justice, advocating for shared governance and respecting all citizens’ rights. Central to the vision is empowering youth and fostering interfaith dialogue. The model focuses on collaboration, inclusivity, and innovative governance models inspired by Switzerland’s federative systems.

Significant Components of The Geneva Accord:

1. Binational State Model: Advocating equal rights for all citizens, moving beyond the traditional two-state solution.
2. Confederation Model: Inspired by Switzerland’s model, fostering autonomy and cooperation.
3. Youth Empowerment: Creating mentorship and leadership platforms for young Israeli and Palestinian leaders.
4. Custodianship of Al-Masjid al-Aqsa: Promoting interfaith dialogue with Swiss facilitation.
5. AHSAN (Arab Hope and Social Advancement Network): Supporting a new generation of peace leaders through youth-led initiatives.

These initiatives are designed to reshape the peace process, harnessing the voices of the younger generation and fostering a future where peace is sustained by innovation and shared governance.

Join Us in the Pursuit of Peace

The Geneva Proclamation calls upon all nations, leaders, and communities to unite to pursue a peaceful and prosperous Middle East. By embracing this framework, we affirm our collective commitment to tolerance, dialogue, and the enduring values that Geneva represents.

Please access the full document and the accompanying briefing of The Geneva Proclamation