IIE Victor J. Goldberg Prize for Peace in the Middle East

Nominations

IIE has awarded the IIE Victor J. Goldberg Prize for Peace in the Middle East annually since 2004, to recognize outstanding work being conducted jointly by two individuals, one Israeli Jew, and one Arab Muslim, whether or not a citizen of Israel, working together to advance the cause of peace in the Middle East.

As we approach the 20th year of the IIE Goldberg Prize in 2024, we are deeply saddened by the current crisis in the region. We mourn the tragic loss of 2011 Goldberg Prize awardee Vivian Silver, and the loss of and bereavement of others who have devoted so much of their lives to bringing people together.

While we recognize those who wish to work together to advance the cause of peace are facing even greater obstacles this year, we believe this work continues to be of utmost importance. Vic Goldberg and the Goldberg Prize selection committee are committed to continuing to award this prize to uplift and support these partnerships to inspire others and provide a beacon of hope. Nominations for the 2024 IIE Goldberg Prize may describe the work that had been conducted prior to the current conflict and should indicate whether the work is ongoing or has been paused, as well as whether activities are being modified to address the current conflict.

The winners are selected by a prestigious international selection committee, based on courage, creativity, and success in bringing people together and meeting the goals of the Prize. The two individuals will share a US $20,000 prize. Award ceremonies are generally held each June, along with public announcement of the winners.

ABOUT THE AWARD

Goals of the Prize:

  • Advance the cause of peace in the Middle East
  • Reward those who are courageous and committed to work to overcome the religious, cultural, ethnic and political issues which divide the region
  • Break down barriers of hate towards “the other”
  • Recognize innovation
  • Inspire others working at the grassroots level, and demonstrate that their efforts are worthy of wider recognition.  

To recognize the full range of excellent work being done in this very difficult and important area, IIE is encouraging applications from any two individuals whose activities meet the criteria and goals outlined above. Eligibility in the past was limited to teams in which one member had some prior connection with IIE’s programs or sponsors. Such prior connection will still get preference in close judgements but will not automatically determine the winner. Examples of relevant “prior connection” include State Department programs such as Fulbright Programs, Humphrey Fellowships, International Visitor Leadership Programs, as well as USAID, U.S. Institute for Peace, Ford Foundation and other foundations, government agencies and corporate-sponsored programs associated with IIE. 

Nominations are now closed. Please send any questions or comments to iiegoldbergprize@iie.org.