Case study
In the Middle East young people are aware every day of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Youth organisations from these countries, plus Austria and Great Britain, got together in 2004 to organise a Peace Camp, on neutral ground in Austria. The aim was to give young people from different sides of the conflict a chance to spend time getting to know each other, discussing the issues, and having fun together.
The camp was a huge success.There were some more difficult times when the groups held discussions, and had to try to understand each others perspectives. The conflict is a very emotional topic, and people wanted to express their differing opinions. The young people had the opportunity to take part in dramas, where they acted out roles from each side of the conflict, helping them to understand the different attitudes involved. There was also time for fun activities such as swimming, songs and games. They spent time out walking in the countryside, giving people a chance to chat informally to each other, and have time on their own.
Find out more about the peace camp on their website www.peace-camp.at.tt