Israel Plans to Absorb 1 Million New Immigrants Over 10 Years
Translated & summarized from Mignews by baba
Israel is planning to absorb up to one million new immigrants over the next ten years, primarily from former Soviet Union countries, according to Dmitry Gendelman, an advisor to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Gendelman stated that approximately one million individuals in the region may be eligible under the Law of Return. He stressed the importance of managing expectations for new immigrants, citing challenges like language, employment, and housing. The initiative aims to ensure successful integration and long-term commitment to Israel.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Israel plans to welcome up to 1 million new immigrants over the next decade.
- Former Soviet Union countries are seen as the primary source for new immigrants.
- Approximately 500,000 people in Russia alone may be eligible to immigrate.
- Factors influencing immigration include political instability and antisemitism.
- The government must focus on immigrant integration, not just attraction.
- Realistic expectations are crucial to prevent disillusionment and emigration.
Israel is developing a long-term program aimed at facilitating the immigration of up to one million new residents within the next decade. Dmitry Gendelman, an advisor in the Prime Minister's Office, revealed these plans in an interview with Boris Mirkin on MIG TV. Gendelman identified countries of the former Soviet Union as a primary source for future immigration, estimating that approximately one million individuals there may be eligible to move to Israel under the Law of Return. He cited political instability, the risk of mobilization, economic hardships, and rising antisemitism as factors influencing decisions to immigrate.
Since the full-scale war in Ukraine began, over 100,000 people have arrived in Israel, though some have since departed for other countries or returned to their original homes. Gendelman emphasized the need for the state to focus not only on attracting immigrants but also on their successful integration. "We must explain as honestly and balanced as possible to potential immigrants what awaits them after moving," he stated, noting challenges such as language barriers, employment, housing, and children's education.
To prevent disillusionment and subsequent emigration, Gendelman believes state programs should foster realistic expectations about life in Israel. "Our task is not just to increase the number of arrivals, but to create conditions under which they can successfully integrate and want to tie their future to Israel," he explained. Gendelman also mentioned his personal involvement in developing recommendations for government services handling immigration matters.
The plan to welcome a million new citizens is linked to broader demographic shifts in Israel, including a generational change that will significantly impact society's composition and needs in the coming years.
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