Forward Thinking hold meetings in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, 25th May - 2nd June 2014

Forward Thinking met with Israeli and Palestinian political leaders, senior officials, academics and youth groups in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza. These meetings provided a deep insight into the current situation following recent developments in the region, notably the announcement from Gaza of a reconciliation deal between the major Palestinian factions on 23rd April, and the suspension of US-brokered peace talks.During the visit, Forward Thinking also facilitated meetings with Israeli and Palestinian politicians and youth groups for Dr Gary Mason and Professor Peter McBride, of the Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health (NIAMH). Gary and Peter shared their experiences of working in conflict resolution and bridge-building between communities in Belfast, Northern Ireland, as well as discussing the issue of trauma and the role it plays within communities in conflict.