The Jewish Democratic Council of America (JDCA) has supported the Nita Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act (MEPPA) since its inception. MEPPA became law in December 2020 and established the People-to-People Partnership for Peace Fund and the Joint Investment for Peace Initiative. These funds support Palestinian and Israeli initiatives to build partnerships, increase economic growth, and lay the foundation for peace.

At a time of increasing instability and violence in the region, MEPPA programs are a critical U.S. tool that builds greater trust among Israelis and Palestinians and enhances cooperation. By investing directly in the Palestinian private sector, supporting Israeli-Palestinian partnerships that address common development challenges, and promoting partnerships between Israelis and Palestinians to increase economic growth, MEPPA fights despair and builds meaningful grassroots support for peace. MEPPA programs provide a rare opportunity in this political climate to make tangible steps toward Middle East peace and promote the interests of Israelis and Palestinians alike. 

As authorized, MEPPA directs $50 million for each of the five fiscal years following enactment but the funds need to be reauthorized each year in the State and Foreign Operations (SFOPS) bill. Sign here to urge your member of Congress to maintain funding for MEPPA in the SFOPS bill this year.