One of the most polarized topics in global discourse, discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can evoke intense emotions. The complex subject can be deeply personal and even symbolic, rendering debates fraught with tension. 

Unpacking Terminology to Enable Dialogue: Why Words Matter

Words themselves can cause strong reactions, especially when those engaged in debate have different understandings of their meanings in ways they may not even be aware of. Recognizing these challenges, the School for Peace has developed a pioneering workshop on terminology to help navigate this challenging terrain. By exploring how language shapes our understanding and framing of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the workshop empowers individuals and organizations to create spaces to articulate views in ways that foster constructive dialogue rather than impeding it. 

Structured dialogue guided by facilitators allows participants to reflect on how and why they might choose certain terms over others, gain insight into the implications, narratives and tensions words can evoke while being cognizant of their own responses to certain terminology. Participants examine power dynamics underlying language choices, and the historical and legal connotations and contexts in which words and phrases are used in order to engage in more productive dialogue processes.

Words and phrases are not neutral; they influence perceptions, relationships, and the potential for constructive engagement. 

Occupation

The Conflict

Genocide

Oppression

Terrorism

Apartheid

Peace

Colonization  

Over the past year more than 60 people from diverse groups grappling with unique challenges related to the conflict took part in the workshop including:

-An artists’ cooperative in Germany explored how language could shape their engagement with Israeli and Palestinian artists. 

-German educators examined how terminology impacts students’ understanding of the conflict in their classrooms. 

-As part of the Konektor conference in Prague, participants from former Yugoslavia and the Balkans analyzed the implications of words in conflicts marked by complex historical power dynamics.

-Participants in an advocacy group learned to balance organizational neutrality with authentic engagement that fosters honest and productive dialogue.

Interested in bringing this important workshop to your organization or community? Contact the School for Peace to learn how to transform dialogue through the power of words.

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