Bereaved Families and Survivors Launch Initiative to Combat Societal Polarization

A new initiative called "HaMachaneh" (The Common Denominator) has been launched by bereaved families, former hostages, and victims of war and terror. The group aims to address the growing societal polarization in Israel, which they describe as an existential national threat. The initiative comes three years after the October 7th attacks and just weeks before upcoming elections.

Members of HaMachaneh come from diverse backgrounds and hold different viewpoints but are united by their personal experiences of loss, captivity, or injury due to war and terror. They discovered that shared experiences of suffering can foster connection and collaboration despite disagreements, leading to the formation of the group and its name, which signifies a desire to expand the common ground between different societal factions.

The group is urging the Israeli government to establish a permanent national infrastructure for social cohesion within its first 100 days. This body would be responsible for systematically addressing polarization and strengthening societal unity. Its initial tasks would include mapping and analyzing the root causes of division, followed by the development of a multi-year national strategy involving government systems, education, local authorities, the business sector, and civil society to enhance trust, connection, and social resilience.

HaMachaneh has also set a public goal of creating ten million new connections between Israelis from different communities, sectors, and political camps. This initiative began during the holiday season on social media using the hashtag #Another1ToMachaneh, encouraging individuals to share stories of connecting with people outside their usual circles. The ultimate aim is to transform the concept of expanding common ground into tangible action through increased personal encounters that broaden circles of familiarity, trust, and partnership.

The launch of HaMachaneh occurs at a time of national reflection, coinciding with the third anniversary of the October 7th attacks and the approach of the general elections. The founders intend to shift the national conversation beyond the formation of the next government to encompass the kind of society that will emerge in the post-election era.