EAPPI continues its work with 15 new accompaniers

The Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel welcomed 15 new ecumenical accompaniers (EAs) as it continues working with Palestinians and Israelis on peaceful solutions to the conflict. The new arrivals join six workers staying on from previous groups, bringing the total number of EAs currently on the ground to 21.

EAPPI works with Palestinians and Israelis who are seeking an end to the occupation through non-violent means and a just solution to the long conflict. Ecumenical Accompaniers work with local churches, Palestinian and Israeli NGOs, as well as Palestinian communities in various capacities to try to reduce the brutality of the occupation and improve the daily lives of both peoples.

The new team of accompaniers comes from six countries, including an EA from Germany, which is participating in the programme once again. Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United States continue to be represented. The 10 women and five men range in age from 25 to 66 years. The minimum service will be three months. Additionally, the first accompanier from New Zealand is in the group of hold-overs.

The current group will work in various sites. Three accompaniers will continue the work in Sawahreh, a village split between East Jerusalem and the West Bank and threatened by the continued construction of Israel’s "separation fence" or wall. Two will be working with the Christian community and refugee camps in Ramallah. One has been assigned to the "Israel Team", which partners with Israeli peace and justice organizations. Two accompaniers will be working in Hebron, accompanying children going to school and monitoring the human rights situation. Two will be living in the West Bank village of Yanoun. Two have been assigned to work on media projects with Palestinian partner organizations.

Since the programme was launched in August 2002, 95 ecumenical accompaniers have participated from more than 30 churches and ecumenical partners in nine countries: Canada, Denmark, Germany, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

For more information on the WCC: www.wcc-coe.org

For more information on EAPPI: www.eappi.org