Publication
What is it about?
The aim of this research project is to provide a detailed analysis of three decades of peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO), from the start of the Oslo process in 1993 up until 2023 The project will explain the root causes for the failure to bring about peace, and the keys for future successful negotiations. The project is important because the protracted Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been destabilizing the Middle East and world peace at large. Lessons learned from the peace process are important first and foremost for the Israelis and the Palestinians but they are also of importance for other actors including European and Middle Eastern countries. Successful peace negotiations enhance security of all those affected by the conflict.
Why is it important?
The research deduces constructive lessons for effective peace facilitation and mediation. It analyses relative successes and crucial mistakes in the negotiations. The milestones include the Oslo process (1993), the Wye River Memorandum (1998), the Harpsund negotiations (2000), Camp David (2000), Taba (2001), Annapolis (2007), Olmert-Abu Mazen negotiations (2006-2008), the Kerry Initiative (2013-2014) and the Trump Peace Plan (2020). While the research involves extensive literature review of secondary resources, its novel contribution is its reliance on original primary sources – archival material and in-depth, semi-structured interviews with Israeli, Palestinian, Egyptian, Norwegian, Swedish, American and British key figures. Leaders have identified the factors that move history forward. The research sheds new light on the proceedings and offers innovative ideas as to how to proceed. The investigation brings together studies in the fields of diplomacy, international relations, conflict resolution and peace studies.
Perspectives
Since the 1980s I have been involved in peace talks between Israel and the PLO. I worked with Shimon Peres and other Israeli leaders and participated in talks with Palestinians. This issue is very important to me.
Professor
Raphael
Cohen-Almagor
Hebrew University of Jerusalem