Engaging the Muslim World

Every week SFCG distributes collections of moderate essays bridging the Western-Muslim divide and the Arab-Israeli conflict to news outlets and individuals worldwide, in 6 languages. These essays are frequently reprinted in major news publications throughout the world. SFCG also holds workshops, summits, and other meetings to help civil society and media professionals leverage the power of media as a tool for peacebuilding.

Partners in Humanity (PiH)

The PiH program addresses feelings of mutual fear and suspicion between Western and Muslim societies (including Muslims in the West) that have arisen because of perceived and real injustices, extreme inequality in political and economic opportunity, and pervasive stereotypes. PiH seeks to cultivate a sense of shared destiny and serve as a catalyst for Muslim-Western partnerships that reflect mutual respect, a shared commitment to addressing problems and meeting needs, and an ongoing process of mutual learning and challenging of stereotypes. We believe this attitude and approach reflects the most effective means for creating long-term progress and security.

The Common Ground News Service (CGNews)

CGNews syndicates and disseminates constructive articles and videos on a broad range of issues affecting Muslim-Western relations. CGNews seeks to promote mutual understanding and offer hope, opportunities for dialogue and constructive suggestions that facilitate peaceful resolution of conflict. We publish and promote articles by local and international experts on current Middle East issues and the relationship between the West and Arab and Muslim communities. Available in Arabic, English, French, Indonesian and Urdu, CGNews articles have appeared more than 15,000 times in over 2000 media outlets around the world since its 2003 launch.

Leadership Wisdom Initiative (LWI)

The Palestinian-Israeli Emerging Leaders Programme is a comprehensive leadership development and network building program for strategically positioned emerging Palestinian and Israeli leaders across key sectors.

• 2009 – LWI brought together six Palestinian and six Israeli young social entrepreneurs for a wilderness expedition, one-on-one coaching, and transformational skills training, which resulted in participants developing a deep understanding of one another, and bridging the divide through shared experiences.

• 2010 – LWI engaged political leaders from both sides of the conflict and developed joint action plans to improve mutual understanding among a wider range of political leaders, establishing key connections between Israeli and Palestinian civil society and political sectors.