We were first introduced to Solutions Not Sides back in December as part of an effort to create a more open environment for discussing the ongoing conflict. Their workshops provide a safe space for constructive conversations, encouraging students to ask questions and engage thoughtfully with the topic.
'Invaluable insight statistics and headlines fail to convey'
Solutions Not Sides is dedicated to educating young people on conflict resolution, fostering dialogue, respectful disagreement, active listening, and critical thinking. Their programme, based on the values of non-violence, equality for all, and the rejection of hatred, has been instrumental in helping students navigate difficult conversations.
Hearing firsthand from Israeli and Palestinian peace-builders, like Barak and Ibrahim, gives invaluable insight into the human impact of the conflict - something statistics and headlines often fail to convey.
In a time when misinformation spreads quickly online, these sessions offer clarity and perspective, helping students develop a deeper, more nuanced understanding. The conflict can feel overwhelming, making it tempting to disengage entirely. However, avoiding the conversation is not the solution. Solutions Not Sides inspires young people to think critically, seek understanding, and work towards meaningful dialogue - offering hope for a more constructive and informed future.
'Complex and uncomfortable, but essential'
This conflict is complex, overwhelming, and often uncomfortable to discuss, but it is essential that we do. It has shaped history, continues to affect millions of lives, and frequently dominates the news. Yet, too often, conversations about it are filled with misinformation, bias, and division. With so much information circulating on social media and in the news, it’s easy to encounter oversimplified narratives or falsehoods. That’s why proper education is so important.
Without understanding the full picture, it’s easy to make assumptions and take sides. But by learning critically and engaging thoughtfully, we can challenge stereotypes, form our own informed opinions, and move beyond repeating what we see online. This conflict affects real people who live its consequences every day. Education helps us see beyond headlines and statistics to understand the human impact. Most importantly, it teaches us to approach difficult topics with empathy and open-mindedness, rather than hostility.
Meeting Barak and Ibrahim - refreshing and eye-opening
In December, we had the invaluable opportunity to speak with Barak and Ibrahim about their personal experiences over the past year. They spoke openly about the challenges of media coverage and how we can navigate conversations with friends and family in a mature and empathetic way - something that can be difficult when we are constantly exposed to differing opinions and information.
Our discussion with both were refreshing and eye-opening. It was incredibly valuable to engage in a supportive environment where respect was at the core of the conversation. Having both a Palestinian and an Israeli share their perspectives in the same discussion highlighted the importance of empathy and understanding on both sides.
What stood out most about Solutions Not Sides was their focus on ways forward for peace, rather than deepening the divide. This approach is crucial yet often overlooked in conversations about the conflict. Their insight has helped us think more critically, engage in more meaningful discussions, and approach this complex issue with a greater sense of hope.
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Solutions Not Sides provides critical thinking-based education on Israel-Palestine through providing the opportunity to meet Palestinian and Israeli peace-builders. To find out more about our Youth Education Programme, head to this link.
The Olive Branch Award supports schools to become safe and empowered spaces to talk and learn about tough issues by focusing on Conflict Resolution and Emotional Learning skills. To find out more about becoming an Olive Branch Award school, head to this link.