Polithon was developed as a broad innovative model for change based on the initial idea of trying to

hack a potential solution to the blockade of Gaza. We were of course met with skepticism at first just
given the sheer complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the controversial nature of any issue
related to it, but we knew we had to try. It is probably one of the most intractable conflicts our
generation will ever witness, and if even part of a solution could be developed by
Millennial PolicyMakers (PMs) coming together, aided by experts, and then bought into by the public
and those negotiating, we have stumbled upon something big.

In the pages that follow, our idealistic, yet realistic, PMs developed the best solution they could come up
with in two days. The process was remarkable and began with experts briefing the group on the
background to the conflict. The PMs then went to work on a massive wall to wall, floor to ceiling, white
board, pouring out their ideas, listening to one another, and going through each concept to see where
there were holes they needed to fill. The group was mostly progressive, but given their diverse
backgrounds tech, policy, law, business, government, and nonprofit they each brought different
perspectives. They also made an effort to see the issue from every angle possible so that they could
determine what would actually be acceptable to both sides in order to find the middle ground.

On the second day of Polithon, the PMs worked collaboratively on the Policy Outcome via a Google Doc,
each meticulously working through a section, inputting language, and working out issues that arose
guided by an expert who stayed on hand to answer questions. The group did everything they could to
try to work out the complexities of the issue and find a solution that anyone who stands firmly on one
side or the other may not be fully comfortable with, but one that could be acceptable and move the
needle.

The solution is by no means perfect, but it is a serious step. The intent of it was not to trade the
development of Gaza for Israels definition of security, but to get to a workable and agreeable solution
to alleviate the long suffering of innocent Palestinians in Gaza as a direct result of the blockade. We took
on this issue because the situation in Gaza struck a personal chord with us particularly Julia, who spent
last year living and working there and because it was one everyone seemed to be saying needed an
end, but no one was offering a way to actually do it. Here is one way.

We hope this is the start of a movement much greater than just one solution to one policy issue. We are
crowd-sourcing Millennial ideas to hack the policy system and create lasting change, and the beta-test
was the first step. Please share this document and help us turn words into action.

Thank you!
Julia + Evanna
www.polithon.org

Polithon Outcome Executive Summary


The humanitarian situation in Gaza was already reaching a breaking point before the escalation
in violence between Israel and Gaza, and now has been pushed far beyond. In 2012, the UN
said that Gaza would be unlivable by 2020, but as a result of the devastation this summer, we
are sure that will set in much sooner without a complete lifting of the blockade as soon as
possible. It is clear that removing the blockade of Gaza is a critical first step for the future of
Israeli and Palestinian peace, security, and prosperity, but is even more necessary given the
dire circumstances of Palestinians in Gaza. Israels ongoing blockade of the Gaza Strip has not
achieved its objectives, and has only worsened the situation and prospects for peace, while also
dramatically increasing poverty levels for Gazas 1.8 million inhabitants.
It was necessary to be realistic in the approach that follows so that both parties could agree and
the situation could be improved. The lifting of the blockade in a gradual, coordinated, and
monitored process will further a stable security environment for all and create a lasting
economic framework for both Gaza and Israels long-term benefit. This first step outlines a
twenty-four (24) month plan of action; our hope is that by specifically and strategically
addressing certain aspects of the security, economic, and social issues at hand, we can
encourage and foster confidence building among the parties involved. Below are highlights of
our agreement-proposal, presented in six (6) to twelve (12) month increments. These points, in
the context of the broader framework presented, will provide real and positive change for
Israelis and Palestinians.

0-6 Months:
Release of tax revenue for Palestinian Consensus Government (PCG) from Israel.
Expansion of the fishing zone off the coast of Gaza to six (6) nautical miles within two
(2) weeks, with the expansion to ten (10) miles after six (6) months period, contingent
upon Palestinian compliance with the ceasefire during that time period
Lifting restrictions on the Kerem Shalom border crossing of trucks for import and export
of goods and services, unrelated to the travel of humanitarian/UN trucks.
The UN commits to monitoring the import of goods/services across Kerem Shalom.
Israeli forces will withdraw to one hundred (100) meters within the Gaza border and will
not operate at any point more than one hundred (100) meters within the border. To be
completely withdrawn to the green-line within twelve (12) months.
Israel guarantees supply of critically needed water and electricity.

6-12 Months:
Open the Erez border crossing for up to 1000 people per day initially, and increasing to
2000 per day by twelve (12) months after signing, monitored by an EU Coalition.
The allowance for pass-through permits for up to 100 entrepreneurs and 500 students
per year (cumulative to 2000 students, 500 entrepreneurs after 4 years).
Israel allows permits and licensing for private firms to provide eco-energy consulting in
Gaza.
Recognition by both parties of the others territorial sovereignty, requiring the cessation
of any tunnel construction beyond Gazas borders.

12-24 Months:
Israel withdraws its troops and security forces from the one hundred (100) meter point
within the Gaza border back to the original green-line border demarcation.
Opening of the Karni border crossing for the transfer of goods and services to and from
Gaza.
Opening of the Erez border crossing for up to 5,000 people per day, as monitored by an
EU Coalition, after eighteen (18) months from the date of signing.
The creation and development of a seaport in Gaza, under the guidance and assisted-
project management of a coalition of actors.
Ease restrictions on credit and financing to small and medium enterprises in Gaza.
The US commits to the support of the Israeli military and its facilities, providing aid and
funding to develop Israeli military technology, weaponry, and capabilities.