The Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act of 2020 establishes initiatives aimed at fostering economic development and peace-building between Israelis and Palestinians. Congress recognizes that economic development in conflict areas can stabilize communities and mitigate unemployment, particularly in the Palestinian territories, where unemployment reached 32.4% in 2018. The Act introduces the People-to-People Partnership for Peace Fund to support projects that promote coexistence, dialogue, and economic cooperation, prioritizing grassroots efforts and participation from Palestinians, Israelis, and international organizations. It also sets up the Joint Investment for Peace Initiative to bolster the Palestinian private sector by facilitating investments that encourage joint ventures and economic integration. Both initiatives require stringent vetting processes and coordination with U.S. agencies to prevent funds from supporting terrorism or the Palestinian Authority. The Act authorizes $50 million annually over five years to support these efforts, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration and local engagement in achieving a sustainable two-state solution. This legislative framework aims to build a lasting path to peace by investing in economic growth, dialogue, and mutual understanding between conflicting parties.
The USAID Annual Program Statement (APS) invites applications for the People-to-People Partnership for Peace Fund Grants Activity, emphasizing support for Israeli-Palestinian partnerships aiming to enhance coexistence and contribute to a sustainable two-state solution. Launched on January 6, 2025, with a closing date of January 5, 2026, the APS allows for submissions of concept papers for grants ranging from $250,000 to $5 million. The goal is to create grassroots linkages through innovative approaches that address shared challenges, with funding focused on psychosocial support, inclusion of marginalized groups, and fostering youth and women’s engagement in peacebuilding initiatives. Importantly, the process encourages collaboration with local entities, with an emphasis on tangible metrics to measure impact on peace efforts. The APS details eligibility criteria, funding mechanisms, and risks associated with financial management while stipulating that all applications must be submitted electronically and follow specific guidelines. This initiative exemplifies the U.S. government's commitment to facilitating dialogue and understanding amidst ongoing regional tensions.