In light of the recent escalation of violence between Israel and Hamas caused by the terror attack by Hamas on 7.10.2023, we encourage all parties to participate in a constructive dialogue and to act towards an immediate ceasefire and to fully respect the international human rights. We urge all parties to cease hostilities immediately and allow for an unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid, ensuring it reaches those in need. 

We demand the immediate release of all civilians taken by Hamas as hostages. We emphasize that safeguarding innocent lives and civilian infrastructures is of paramount necessity in times of war, just as in times of peace. Civilists mustn’t be used as human shields.

As an international organisation imbued in values of solidarity, we express support for Muslim and Jewish communities affected by the horrors of war and the violence and threats on open spaces as in social media. We distance ourselves from antisemitic and anti-Muslim movements and advocate for the enforcement of the EU Digital Service Act to counter hate speech on social media platforms.

Increases in antisemitism, anti-Muslim hatred, and discrimination have also led to increased acts of racial profiling, harassment, and the disproportionate treatment of ethnic and religious minorities by police authorities. Combating antisemitism and anti-Muslim hatred is every State’s responsibility, and it is that of civil society and youth organizations to promote a safe environment for all citizens. Every time racially motivated police violence increases, it particularly affects young people.
Across Europe, we are seeing laws being proposed and imposed that restrict freedom of assembly and association. Young people and youth organisations wanting to peacefully and safely express their views are reporting an increased fear of reprisals from authorities. We demand young people and youth organisations be heard and taken seriously in the process of peacebuilding. Civil society, including youth organisations and young people themselves, must be key actors in the peace process.

To combat antisemitism, anti- Muslim hatred and racism youth organisations need appropriate financial means. Therefore, we call on European institutions to supply youth organisations with subventions sustainably replying to the current situation. That funds should include extra programs for funding training courses at Shoah (Shoah stands for the holocaust and genocide of Jewish people under the Nazi regime memorials).
We demand a restart of the peace process between the State of Israel and the Palestinian Authority, supported by the international community. We call on the solidarity of the international community to support diplomatic efforts for an immediate ceasefire and the safeguarding of civilian lives.

We demand parties to privilege dialogue and diplomatic initiatives to address the conflict
that has been causing havoc for decades now and find a just solution that respects the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. IYNF is guided by the goal of a two-state solution with two democratic states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side, in peace, with secure, safe, and recognized borders allowing young people from these two states and other countries to prosper toward a peaceful international community.

IYNF Council 2023