About Hiba Qasas

Biography and Background

Hiba Qasas, a 45-year-old Palestinian-Swiss from Geneva, is the Founding Executive Director of the Principles for Peace Foundation.[17][18] Previously, she served 17-18 years at the United Nations, including as Head of Secretariat for the Principles for Peace Initiative at Interpeace.[16][18] She has influenced high-level peace efforts, such as advising on US President Donald Trump's Middle East plans and engaging with world leaders at secret conferences.[3][21]

Israeli-Palestinian Peacebuilding and Two-State Solution

Qasas promotes reviving the two-state solution amid endless Middle East conflict, collaborating with Israeli figures like Gen. Nimrod Sheffer, Nadav Tamir, and MK Rabbi Gilad Kariv.[2][4][5][12][15] She co-discusses sustainable Gaza peace plans, compromises needed for stability, and joint civil society briefings.[4][5][9][24] Key efforts include launching political working groups from Davos to Jerusalem/Ramallah and building bridges via PeaceTalks.[10][12][16]

Gaza Ceasefire and Stabilization

Qasas addresses Gaza's fragile ceasefire, urging solidification, aid relief, and alternatives to forcibly disarming Hamas, like peacekeeping models.[11][19][22][25][26][27] She warns of stalled peace plans, perpetual war risks without two-states, and the need for stabilization amid humanitarian emergencies.[15][22][25][27][30] Contributions include UNSC discussions on West Bank policies and Middle East situations.[28][29]

Influence on Trump-Era Diplomacy

Qasas impacted Trump's peace initiatives, praised for potential Middle East 'golden age' and Gaza ceasefire plans.[3][11][21] She engaged Putin-Trump summits peripherally and critiques rollbacks affecting regional health/climate indirectly.[1][2]

Women's Roles in Peacemaking

Highlighting women's absence in high-level politics, Qasas exemplifies female peacemakers, focusing on systemic barriers and invisible high-level work.[6]

Broader Peace Philosophy

Defining peace as choosing life and hope to break violence cycles, Qasas embodies effective leadership communication in global forums.[13][16][17] She features in platforms like Amanpour, Bret Baier Podcast, and Inside Geneva.[2][4][5][6]

Engagements and Media Presence

Active in podcasts (Amanpour, WETR, Apropos), articles (PeaceTalks, J Street), social media, and news (CNN, Jerusalem Post, Haaretz).[1][2][3][4][5][8][9][14][15][24] UN veteran turned foundation leader.[18]