The visit, hosted for the second year running by Blackburn’s Youth Action, formed one leg of the group’s wider journey, which included stops in Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and regions across Wales.
In Blackburn, delegates from the Palestinian city were introduced to the borough’s civic life, culture, and educational opportunities through a full day of activities.
Their first stop was Blackburn College, where principal Dr Fazal Dad welcomed the group and guided them through the campus, highlighting the pathways available to local young people.
Dr Dad said: “It was wonderful to meet and welcome staff and students from Bethlehem.
“Listening to their experiences reinforced the power of education changing lives.”
The delegation later made its way to Blackburn Town Hall for a formal civic reception.
Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen Councillor Jacqueline Slater, council chief executive Denise Park, and council leader Cllr Phil Riley greeted the visitors and took part in discussions centred on peace-building, shared values, and the significance of nurturing international collaboration between young people.
Cllr Riley said: “We were honoured to welcome the Youth Peace Delegation to Blackburn Town Hall and provide a window on the world outside of Palestine.
“Meeting these inspiring young people from refugee camps in Bethlehem has been a powerful reminder of the resilience, hope, and positivity that young people carry, even in the most challenging circumstances.
“Their commitment to dialogue, understanding, and peacebuilding was truly uplifting to see.
“It was a privilege for us, alongside the Mayor, to hear their experiences and to share in meaningful conversation about their aspirations for a more peaceful future.”
The visit also included a trip to Ewood Park to watch a football match, a moment many of the delegates described as unforgettable.
A lively Dabke performance brought the evening to a close. The young dancers delivered a show that resonated deeply with the audience, filling the room with energy and emotion.
Youth Action chief executive, Amar Abbas, said: “Hosting the International Youth Peace Delegation is a privilege for us.
“Their visit brings a message of hope, resilience, and peace, and it provides our local young people and communities with an invaluable opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate our shared humanity.”
The delegation concluded its Lancashire programme with a visit to Preston City Hall. There, they received a civic welcome from Mayor Cllr Sue Whittam, Preston City Council chief executive Adrian Philips, and Deputy Mayoress Cllr Nweeda Khan.
They were also present to witness the formal signing of Preston’s twinning agreement with the Palestinian city of Hebron, 13 miles south of Bethlehem in the West Bank.
Cllr Khan said: “It was wonderful to welcome the delegation after the Mayor’s invitation.
“Meeting the young people was inspiring, and signing the friendship agreement between Hebron and Preston City Council was a proud moment.”
The delegation now continues its UK tour as part of the Bethlehem Cultural Festival.
