Notre Dame Jerusalem gathers experts to discuss the role of language in conflict zones
As a continuation of their partnership with the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Notre Dame Jerusalem recently convened a workshop in collaboration with Asher Kaufman, the director of the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies; Clemens Sedmak, the director of the Nanovic Institute for European Studies; and the Tantur Ecumenical Institute. The workshop brought together scholars from the fields of social ethics, memory studies, Middle East history, theology, and politics.
The workshop, titled "The Role of Language in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict," was held in the Republic of Cyprus and focused on the role of language in conflict zones and its impact on conflict resolution. The goal of the workshop was to gather a diverse range of expert voices who could collectively create a space where everyone could speak and be heard.
Participants engaged in conversation through presentations, panel discussions, and group work. They began the workshop by approaching the topic of language from various perspectives—philosophical, ethical, and religious. Presenters and panel leaders shared their insights and opened up the floor for questions, counterarguments, and conversation.
Together, they explored themes relevant to the current conflict in the Holy Land. In examining the role of language in historical narratives, collective memory, and trauma, the group identified how words have the power to both build walls and bridges between communities. In many cases, they determined, the existing language is insufficient to communicate effectively and peacefully. They raised the important question of how to create a new lexicon and engaged with this topic not just on a theoretical level, but also on a practical one.
“This forum allows us to serve the Church as a convening platform in which the creation of hope is the goal. There is nothing more important than that for us right now,” said Daniel Schwake, Notre Dame Jerusalem’s executive director.
"The work that Notre Dame is doing addresses a critical need for the Catholic Church in general, and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem in particular,” His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa shared. “The Forum's efforts have been immensely beneficial for our pastoral role in the Holy Land thus far. The presence of Notre Dame in Jerusalem is a blessing and cause for gratitude.”
Originally published by at jerusalem.nd.edu on June 04, 2025.