Budget Shift Threatens Arab Youth Employment Programs, Sparks Outcry

Approximately 600 million shekels originally allocated for Arab community development under the Five-Year Plan "550" have been redirected to the police and Shin Bet to combat crime. Houssam Abu Bakr, CEO of the Alfanar Association, and Liat Brosh, CEO of the "Beatzmi" organization, expressed strong opposition to the decision in an interview with ynet, emphasizing that these funds were intended for the Ministry of Labor to support employment programs for Arab youth.

Abu Bakr explained that the largest budget cut targets the Ministry of Labor’s initiatives aimed at promoting employment among the Arab population. Brosh warned that this cut threatens the existence of 24 employment centers nationwide, which serve about 25,000 participants annually, half of whom successfully find jobs. She stressed that the program is effective and state-monitored, highlighting the dual benefit of integrating young people into the workforce and preventing their involvement in criminal organizations.

Abu Bakr criticized the budget reallocation as counterproductive, stating it effectively rewards crime by removing economic opportunities that deter youth from illegal activities. He noted that the funds are meant to reduce social gaps and are not discretionary extras. He accused decision-makers of targeting budgets linked to Mansour Abbas and pointed out that professionals in the Finance and Labor ministries oppose the cuts, recognizing the program’s vital role in fostering hope and economic inclusion.

Brosh added that the impact extends beyond the Arab community, affecting broader societal interests by undermining efforts to reduce crime and promote employment integration. She described the move as shortsighted and lacking social and economic rationale, calling it a significant setback for the community and the country’s overall stability.