Confronted with the never-ending character of the conflict in the Middle East as well as the insufficient activity of the European Union and of the members states, European local authorities decided to create the European Network of Local Authorities for Peace in the Middle East (ELPME) at the end of 2002. The objective of the network is to contribute to a rapid establishment of a just and sustainable peace in the region.

    The priorities of the Network are the following :

    1. Create a large movement of European local authorities for a just and sustainable peace in the Middle East.

    2. Press on the European Union, the member states and intergovernmental organizations to increase their commitment for a just and sustainable peace in the Middle East.

    3. Promote dialogue between Palestinian and Israeli local authorities.

    4. Promote cooperation programmes between European, Israeli, and Palestinian local authorities.

    5. Support peace initiatives between Israelis and Palestinians.