2009 Programs and Events
Palestinian Youth Empowerment: The U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem Hosts Roundtable Discussion with Deputy Secretary of State James B. Steinberg and Palestinian NGO Leaders
Deputy Secretary of State James B. Steinberg met with several leaders of prominent Palestinian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) during a visit to Jerusalem on Monday, November 16, 2009, to discuss youth empowerment and leadership. At the opening of the roundtable discussion, the Deputy Secretary underscored the U.S. government’s commitment to pursuing a peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to help improve the lives of the Palestinian people. He praised the role of NGOs in Palestinian society, noting that they have a unique ability to address the needs of people in direct and effective ways, at a level of engagement that it is sometimes difficult for governments to reach. The Palestinian NGO leaders, all of whom work with young Palestinians throughout the West Bank and East Jerusalem to develop leadership skills and provide educational and training opportunities, described the challenges faced by Palestinian youth – including limitations on the educational system, unemployment, and lack of hope. The Deputy Secretary encouraged them to remain energized despite the challenges, to continue to invest in the leaders of a future Palestinian state, and to consider the United States their partner. Aref Husseini, Director of Al-Nayzak Center for Extracurricular and Scientific Education, hosted the event at the Al-Nayzak facilities in East Jerusalem. Roundtable participants included Abdel Qader Al-Husseini, Head of the Board of Directors of the Faisal Husseini Foundation; Hania Bitar, Director of the Palestinian Youth Association for Leaders; Rami Nassereddin, Diretor of Palestinian Vision; and Sawsan Safadi of the Jerusalem Directorate of Education.