Power of Dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians: Stories of Change from the School for Peace

Nava Sonnenschein's book, The Power of Dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians, features twenty-five powerful interviews with Palestinian and Jewish Israeli alumni of peacebuilding courses, demonstrating that peacebuilding does not end with the courses. The graduates choose to work professionally in roles that contribute to peace-building, undergoing life-changing experiences that provide concrete hope for a sustainable path to a peaceful shared existence as equals in Israel and Palestine.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 30 January 2019
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

In her captivating book, "The Power of Dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians," scholar and activist Nava Sonnenschein delves into a profound exploration of the transformative power of dialogue. Through a series of twenty-five powerful interviews conducted with Palestinian and Jewish Israeli alumni of peacebuilding courses, a decade after their graduation, Sonnenschein sheds light on the enduring impact of these courses on their lives and their commitment to fostering peace.

The participants, hailing from diverse personal and professional backgrounds, embarked on a transformative journey through a series of conflict transformation workshops facilitated by the School for Peace, located in Neve Shalom-Wahat al-Salam, the world's only intentional Jewish-Palestinian community. This unique platform provided a space for ordinary Israelis and Palestinians to come together in an open and honest environment, fostering profound encounters and life-changing experiences.

What emerges from the interviews is a testament to the fact that peacebuilding extends far beyond the confines of the courses. The majority of the graduates choose to pursue professional roles that actively contribute to the ongoing process of peace-building. They work in various sectors, including education, social work, journalism, and community development, leveraging their unique perspectives and experiences to bridge divides and promote understanding.

One of the key insights highlighted by Sonnenschein is the transformative power of encounter between members of groups in conflict. Through their interactions, the participants undergo a profound shift in consciousness, challenging their preconceptions and stereotypes. They develop empathy, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the other's perspective, fostering a sense of mutual respect and cooperation.

These life-changing experiences provide concrete hope for a sustainable path to a peaceful shared existence as equals in Israel and Palestine. The interviews showcase the personal journeys of the alumni, who have overcome personal obstacles and political complexities to become agents of change. They share their stories of resilience, perseverance, and the determination to build a future where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in harmony and prosperity.

"The Power of Dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians" serves as a powerful reminder of the immense potential for dialogue and collaboration to bridge divides and foster peace. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit, and a call to action for individuals, communities, and governments to invest in dialogue as a means of promoting understanding, healing, and ultimately, a lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In conclusion, Nava Sonnenschein's book "The Power of Dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the role of dialogue in fostering peace. Through her compelling interviews and insightful analysis, Sonnenschein provides a roadmap for building bridges between communities and promoting a sustainable path to a peaceful shared existence. Let us embrace the power of dialogue and work together towards a future where peace and harmony prevail.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 229 x 154 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813599212