The International Palestinian Youth League (IPYL) is an independent non-governmental, non partisan, non religious secular organisation based in Hebron. IPYL was founded in May 1997 by a cross-section of Palestinian youth activists. IPYL’s mission is to empower youth aged 15-35 against social, economical, and political challenges in Palestinian society, which the Israeli occupation has aggravated. As a result of this, Palestinian youth have been denied educational opportunities, sites for cultural activities, and community development resources. IPYL woks on creating core of young community leaders who will act as active citizens taking their responsibilities towards the community development and needs.
IPYL aims to counteract these problems through non-formal educational programs, intercultural training, and youth leadership activities. Since its inception, IPYL has implemented over 700 activities, including international voluntary exchanges, cross-cultural study trips, and leadership seminars. By undertaking these activities, IPYL has developed strong alliances with a wide network of individuals and organisations. These include grassroots volunteers in the Hebron area, Palestinian community organisations in Palestine, and International youth networks. IPYL’s focus is on international cooperation, because of the firm belief that youth problems can be better addressed through cross-cultural dialogue. Through international activities, Palestinian youth can network with young people elsewhere and find constructive solutions to their problems. IPYL also aims to mobilise the necessary tools for youth to engage in self-help and learning, rather than trying to solve problems for them.
IPYL’s Objectives
- Empowering Palestinian youth through programs that stress liberal values, intercultural learning, and community development.
- Facilitating Palestinian education through international learning opportunities, local voluntarism, and leadership and language training.
