Our Projects

The seventh of October stands as a poignant moment in the collective memory of the residents of the unrecognized villages. It was a day when they faced adversity without the shields of protection of the iron dome, or the immediate availability of medical services. Compounded by their integration into the economy of the Western Negev, many were significantly affected.

Amid this crisis, the Arab population in the Negev demonstrated resilience and solidarity. In the absence of formal shields, they rallied to help the victims with transportation, rescue operations, and immediate reporting to work at emergency centers. This display of community support highlights the interconnectedness and shared responsibility among the Arab population in the Negev, underscoring the strength derived from unity in times of crisis.

Community organizers are indispensable in any society, and their significance becomes even more pronounced in the context of Bedouin communities residing in unrecognized villages, where the absence of a welfare system and dedicated community organizers compounds the challenges.

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The media project aims to shift the perspective of Israeli society concerning Arab citizens in the Negev, residents of unrecognized villages, and the matter of recognition. Its goal is to advocate for policy reform, alter Israeli political dynamics, and halt the infringement on the human rights of Negev Arabs by acknowledging the villages, consequently putting an end to demolitions. Moreover, it seeks to integrate these villages into a more comprehensive budgetary, organizational, and supportive framework under our jurisdiction.

The Negev, home to approximately three hundred thousand Arabs, represents a unique demographic landscape, constituting around 40% of the region's total residents. This community, however, faces a paradox—while a significant portion resides in the Negev, their land occupancy is disproportionally limited. Nearly half of these individuals find themselves dwelling in unrecognized villages, collectively occupying a mere 3.5% of the vast Negev landscape. A critical point of contention revolves around a mere 1.5% of Negev's land, bringing forth profound implications for the residents of these communities.

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Within the Regional Council, our primary emphasis lies in monitoring governmental maps and facilitating citizen access to information regarding plans and operations. However, there are instances where operations take place in villages without adequate consideration. To address this issue proactively, the council has earmarked the current year for the initiation of a comprehensive mapping methodology, with a specific focus on unrecognized Bedouin villages.

This strategic initiative will concentrate its efforts on the Beer Sheva Valley, an expansive area characterized by the highest concentration of unrecognized villages. The overarching goal is to develop a distinctive, authentic local Bedouin fabric within this region. By delving into the mapping of these villages, the council aspires to shed light on their unique characteristics, needs, and potential, fostering a more inclusive and considerate approach to development and planning.