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Not what it used to be (Illustration)
Photo: Yaron Brener

Israelis feel less connected to State

New survey by Guttman Center reveals only 60% of Israeli Jews feel like they're a part of their nation. Numbers especially alarming compared to parallel data from late 70's

A comprehensive survey published Sunday by the Guttman Center revealed that the number Israeli Jews who feel like they are a part of Israel has hit a new low – a mere 60%.

 

The survey, which looked into issues of social solidarity and feelings of identifying with the State, went on to indicate that only 48% of Israeli ages 18 to 30 identify with the state, and only 46% of all former Soviet Union immigrants want to continue living in Israel.

 

The data, said the Guttman Center, is concerning; especially in comparison to the figure from three decades ago: In 1979, 85% of Israeli Jews felt they were a part of the country, and while the numbers have fluctuated slightly over the years, the new figure – 60% - is alarmingly low.

 

The decline, said the center, was evident is all sectors polled, but the sharpest decline was noted among the ultra-Orthodox community – only 42% said they felt a part of Israel.

 

But not all is bleak: Most of those who immigrated to Israel, even those in their 40s, are willing to fight for their country; 70% of young immigrants are willing to do the same and so do 80% of Israeli Jews.

 

As for living in Israel or immigrating abroad, 70% of Israeli Jews said they want to live in Israel; but only 46% of former USSR immigrants want to do the same. Among the 18-30 sector, said the Guttman Center, 63% want to continue living in Israel.

 


פרסום ראשון: 05.18.08, 21:31
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