International Forum on Peace and Nonviolence in the Middle East
Washington, D.C. – May 2026
A global initiative empowering ordinary people—the “Davids of the world”—to collaborate across borders and build nonviolent responses to humanity’s most urgent challenges.
Overview
Given the United States’ central role in the Middle East and the recent UN peace resolution, May 2026 offers a critical moment for global civil society to step forward. Peace leaders, human rights advocates, youth organizers, scholars, diplomats, and grassroots movements will gather in Washington, D.C. for the International Forum on Peace and Nonviolence in the Middle East.
The Forum aims to create a global space for coordinated action, shared reflection, and nonviolent solutions to the ongoing crises in the region.
Purpose
Develop a shared roadmap to reduce violence and strengthen local peace initiatives.
Connect civil society with policymakers, elevating voices often excluded from geopolitical debates.
Advance nonviolent frameworks rooted in human rights and long-term regional security.
Build international alliances promoting a forward-looking, human-centered approach to Middle East peace.
Core Themes
Human Security & Regional Cooperation
Nuclear Disarmament, Non-Proliferation & a Middle East Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone
Including support for a No First Use policy
Humanitarian Response & Reconstruction
Ending Occupation & Cycles of Violence
Women’s Leadership
Youth Leadership & Education for Peace
Faith, Pluralism & Cultural Renewal
Strategies of Nonviolence & Social Transformation
Working Groups — Organized by Thematic Area
Focused sessions that engage participants in collaborative planning and actionable proposals.
Forum Format
Opening & Plenary Sessions
Thematic Working Groups
Artistic & Cultural Programming
Media & Public Briefings
Diplomatic & Expert Consultations
Closing Session and Final Declaration
Satellite Events in New York
Public discussions and workshops designed to expand the reach and impact of the Forum.
Hudson Valley Park of Study and Reflection (Upstate NY)
Retreats, strategy sessions, and reflective encounters to deepen the Forum’s outcomes and strengthen a growing regional and global movement for nonviolence.