ALLMEP Members’ Recent Engagement With UK Stakeholders
ALLMEP members have been engaging with key UK stakeholders as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict gains prominence as a core foreign policy issue in the upcoming UK general election. International advocacy is a core part of ALLMEP’s work. As an umbrella organization representing our members’ voices abroad, we make sure that civil society peacebuilding remains a focal point in discussions and agreements related to final status diplomacy and a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Last week, Ilan Amit and Kher Albaz of member Ajeec-Nisped along with ALLMEP’s European Policy & Development Coordinator, Rachael Liss, presented their work to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s (FCDO) Peace Process team. Ilan and Kher brought attention to the critical shared society initiatives undertaken by Ajeec-Nisped, offering new insights to the FCDO. Meanwhile, Rachael showcased ALLMEP members more broadly, urging the UK government to throw its weight behind peacebuilders during this pivotal period.
Subsequently, Israeli and Palestinian ALLMEP members participated in sessions during the Jewish Labour Movement’s Annual Conference. Their aim was to highlight their work and urge Labour ministers and supporters to champion Israeli-Palestinian peace within their party policies.
Layla Alsheikh and Robi Damelin from the Parents Circle-Families Forum shared their personal stories of loss and trauma before and after October 7. Their accounts painted a powerful image of Israeli-Palestinian reconciliation and partnership. As Layla emphasized, “It’s not about comparing the pain. It’s about allowing each side to understand and hear from the other.” Robi called on those in the UK to amplify the human stories of Israelis and Palestinians working towards peace, stating, “This is the time we really need you.”
During another session, Rula Hadal, co-executive director of A Land for All (ALFA), delved into ALFA’s vision of Two States, One Homeland. Addressing complex issues like settlers and peace processes, Rula presented ALFA’s concrete solutions for sharing the land and fostering genuine peace.
Sally Abed and Uri Weltmann from ALLMEP member Standing Together, the largest Jewish-Arab grassroots movement in Israel, highlighted their work since October 7. They shared insights into organizing solidarity conventions, supporting victims of discrimination and political persecution, and engaging in public campaigns that promote solidarity, partnership, and long-term peace. Importantly, they conveyed how support from the UK can further enhance their initiatives in the region.
If you are in the UK and would like to be put in contact with any of our members, please reach out to Rachael Liss: rachael@allmep.org
