News item | 08-11-2023 | 13:30
The conflict in Israel and the Palestinian territories is also palpable in Dutch society. Municipalities need concrete and practical tips to enter into local discussions with residents, involved communities and religious and social organizations. That is why the Social Stability Expertise Unit (ESS) of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment has drawn up a guideline.
More substantive knowledge, more background about the complexity of the conflict, recognizing disinformation and how to conduct an extremely sensitive conversation can help municipalities on their way. The guideline contains references to information, suggestions for concrete actions and a discussion guide.
Minister of Gennip: “The events in the Middle East are causing a lot of emotions for everyone. Sadness, anger, powerlessness. I know from experience how important it is to keep talking to each other, to listen to each other and to reach out to each other. People do not have to agree with each other, but there must be room for discussion. In this way we build a strong society together and ensure that the conflict from there does not divide us here. We help municipalities to shape this locally with practical tips.”
Different phases of tensions and polarization
The extent to which tensions and polarization are present as a result of the conflict in Israel and the Palestinian territories varies per municipality. That is why the guide focuses on different phases: the rest phase, phase of discomfort, phase of subcutaneous tensions and phase of overt incidents/escalation. Each phase describes how to recognize it, what questions it can raise and recommendations for what you can do as a municipality.
Support from the ESS
ESS is happy to contribute ideas on issues relating to tensions and polarization. Contact us at [email protected] or during office hours at 070-3334555 to discuss what is needed.