Improving the Economic Situation of the Bedouin

As part of the Israeli Government's ongoing dialogue with the Bedouin public about improving the living standards and economic viability of the Bedouin in the Negev of, the Prime Minister met last week with the Negev Bedouin community leaders.

The plan constitutes an historic opportunity to bring about a significant improvement in the situation of the Bedouin community in the Negev and advance the Negev for the benefit of all of its residents – Jewish and Bedouin alike. At the start of the meeting, it was stated that "After years in which needs were insufficiently met, this Government decided to take matters in hand and bring about a long-term solution of the issue. The plan will allow the Bedouin, for the first time, to realize their assets and turn them from dead capital into living capital – to receive ownership of the land, which will allow for home construction according to law and for the development of enterprises and employment. This will jump the population forward and provide it with economic independence."

It is now important to invest in areas such as employment and housing so that the Bedouin will take part in this development process and enjoy the fruits of the development and prosperity in the Negev.

Israel is leaping towards the future and the Bedouin are part of this future. The plan will help the Bedouin community to reach economic independence. This plan is designed to bring about development and prosperity.