Forward Thinking meet with Palestinian representatives, Cairo 20th May

Forward Thinking travelled to Cairo to hold meetings with Palestinian representatives from across the political spectrum to discuss potential initiatives to encourage Palestinian unity. While participants agreed that unity between the different political parties in Palestine (particularly Hamas and Fatah) is a necessary precursor to a stable and and durable peace, several obstacles to unity were identified. International opposition to Palestinian unity was highlighted as a particular challenge but it was noted that some European states are beginning to shift their position on the issue.The meeting also highlighted the need for "fresh thinking" to urgently restart peace negotiations, with several individuals warning that mounting frustration in the West Bank and Gaza, particularly amongst Palestinian youth, risked exploding unless progress was made.