Children of Peace

Children of Peace is a British-based, non-partisan charity dedicated to fostering friendship, trust, and reconciliation between Israeli and Palestinian children aged 4 to 17, as well as their wider communities. Established in 2003/2004, the charity operates through arts, education, health, and sports programmes designed to nurture a shared spirit and well-being among children affected by the longstanding Middle East conflict. Its aim is to build a foundation for peaceful co-existence so that future generations might live and work side-by-side in harmony[1][3][4].

Mission and Focus

The charity concentrates on addressing the needs of children who are often the forgotten victims of the conflict, many of whom live under continuous threat, experiencing trauma, loss, anxiety, and health challenges. Children of Peace views protecting and supporting these young individuals as the best hope for a peaceful future in the region. By promoting positive relationships and shared experiences, the organization seeks to overcome suspicion, mistrust, and fear between communities[3].

Activities and Approach

Children of Peace implements a variety of programmes that include arts projects, educational initiatives, healthcare supports, and sports activities in Israel, the Palestinian territories, and neighboring countries. These initiatives are carried out through partnerships with local community-based organizations and NGOs across Bahrain, Egypt, Gaza, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Turkey, and the West Bank. Together, these form the Coalition of Peace, the largest peace alliance in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The charity acts as a catalyst for cooperation and interchange, funding projects committed to conflict resolution, child protection, and impartiality in the conflict[1].

Organization and Governance

The charity is headquartered in Uckfield, East Sussex, United Kingdom. It is governed by a Management Committee made up of trustees and advisors, supported by sub-committees focused on compliance, grants, and media. Plans are underway to establish a Development Board to further advise the trustees. The organization is supported by volunteers and does not pay its trustees; it also has no trading subsidiaries[1][4].

Impact

Since its inception, Children of Peace has helped over 125,000 children affected by conflict through its programmes. The charity emphasizes grassroots change, believing that peace and reconciliation will grow from the shared experiences and relationships built among children from both Israeli and Palestinian backgrounds[1][3][4].

Charity Number: 1112301

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Children_of_Peace [2] https://www.childrenofpeace.org.uk [3] https://www.childrenofpeace.org.uk/about-us/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1112301&subid=0 [5] https://www.instagram.com/childrenofpeaceuk/