Action didn’t end with the conference — it began there. The momentum starts now.
We gathered at the Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus Hotel from 30th April to 1st May for a game-changing conference that made a lasting impact.
Over the course of two days, the conference brought together a diverse group of local, Islamic, and international leaders, alongside experts, donors, and grassroots actors, to confront the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to lay the groundwork for long-term recovery and development across Palestine. The gathering served as a critical platform for collaboration, strategic planning, and collective advocacy.
The primary focus was to shape a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to Gaza’s reconstruction—one that addresses immediate relief needs while advancing sustainable development, healthcare and education reform, economic revitalization, and infrastructure rebuilding. A clear message emerged: while political conditions such as a ceasefire and open access remain essential, progress cannot be delayed.
Throughout the sessions, participants underscored the importance of mobility, inclusive education, and local empowerment as pillars of recovery. The role of the private sector featured prominently, with strong support for entrepreneurship, job creation, and long-term economic resilience. Health system reform and greater equity in service delivery were also key priorities, with calls for more integrated, locally led solutions.
The conference closed with a shared commitment to practical, actionable recovery pathways—anchored in solidarity, sustainability, and the belief that Gaza’s future must be shaped by those living and leading from within.
Conference Highlights
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Panel 1: Rebuilding Gaza Together: Urgent Global Action for Recovery and Progress
Workshops:Humanitarian Relief: Enhancing Coordination and Maximizing Global Efforts
Camps to Communities: Post-Conflict Shelter in Gaza
A Startup Investment Fund for the Levant Region – Possibilities and Limitations
Market Access for Palestinian Exports: A Roadmap to Regional Influence and Economic Sustainability
Panel 2: Strengthening Palestinian Healthcare: Urgent Relief and Sustainable Reform
Workshops:
Addressing Immediate Healthcare Needs in Gaza
Supporting SMEs, Sustaining Livelihoods
Early Childhood and Lost Learning: Bringing Children Back Up to Speed
Built for the MENA Region: Powering the Next Wave of Palestinian Tech-Startups
Panel 3:The Medium and Long-Term Foundation of Sustainable Economic Reconstruction and Development in Gaza/Palestine
Workshops:Insurance and Health Policy Reform
Gaza Reconstruction Institute: Aligning Vocational and Higher Education with Gaza’s Labor Market Needs
Building from Within: Chambers of Commerce as Engines of Recovery in Gaza
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Anera. The largest American NGO operating in the West Bank and Gaza, Anera works closely with local institutions, such as schools, universities, health facilities, cooperatives, municipalities, grassroots communities, and charitable associations to deliver humanitarian aid and economic programs.
ICYF. ICYF envisions empowered youth across the OIC region actualizing their full potential for the sustainable development of their communities, nations, and the world, driven by the Islamic values of cooperation, excellence and unity.
Palestine Emerging. Powered by a diverse coalition of Palestinian private sector leaders and technical organisations, international experts and global policy makers, working closely with the Palestinian government. Palestine Emerging’s aim is to build on existing strengths and foster new opportunities to accelerate and substantiate economic recovery.
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New York Times Opinion Piece by Sean Carroll:
TRT Coverage Including Video:
https://www.turkiyetoday.com/region/international-organizations-convene-in-istanbul-for-gaza-151984
Anera Press Release:
In unity, a glimmer of hope was born for Gaza’s future
