Pathways to Peace is a forward-looking initiative launched in October 2014 by Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor at Illinois College in the United States. The initiative was introduced in the presence of former US President Jimmy Carter and former Congressman Paul Findley. Its purpose was to empower young scholars to explore new and creative approaches to resolving one of the most enduring conflicts in modern history—the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.
Recognising the importance of youth as future policymakers and leaders, the program invited talented students and faculty members to participate in a collaborative academic research initiative. Illinois College designed the program as both a seminar and a think-tank, allowing participants to critically examine the historical, political, and social dimensions of the conflict.
Six outstanding students from different academic disciplines were selected to join the program, supported by six faculty mentors. Each student worked closely with a faculty advisor to conduct research and develop a final paper proposing innovative solutions to the conflict. The interdisciplinary approach encouraged participants to combine perspectives from law, political science, sociology, philosophy, history, and other fields.
Students attended weekly seminars, readings, and lectures delivered by prominent experts on Middle Eastern politics and peace processes. Speakers included former US Congressman Paul Findley and diplomat David Greenlee, who shared insights on diplomatic negotiations and peace-building efforts in the region.
In early 2015, participants traveled to the Middle East, visiting Israel and the West Bank. This experience provided a unique opportunity for students to witness the realities of the conflict firsthand, deepening their understanding of its human, political, and economic dimensions.
The research culminated in a collection of policy proposals and innovative ideas aimed at advancing peace, improving intercultural understanding, and addressing economic and social inequalities. These contributions created a valuable knowledge base that can support future academic research and peace initiatives.
Project Reference
Khalafalhabtoor.net: Pathways to Peace
"Although my generation could not find a solution to the Palestinian–Israeli conflict, I remain optimistic that the next generation will succeed in achieving peace."
— Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor
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