Israeli Initiative Connects Overseas Voters with Hosts for October Elections

A new nonprofit platform called "Kibbutz Galuyot" has emerged to help Israelis living abroad who plan to return to Israel to vote in the October 27 elections by connecting them with local hosts offering free accommodation. The initiative began spontaneously when its founder posted on Facebook inviting overseas voters to stay at her home without charge, which quickly gained thousands of likes and shares, prompting the creation of a digital platform to match guests with hosts nationwide.

The founder, a sociologist and gender studies expert, explained the project aims to support Israelis abroad who want to participate in Israeli democracy despite the financial and logistical challenges. She emphasized that the initiative is nonpartisan, welcoming hosts and guests regardless of political affiliation, and serves as a symbol of social cohesion amid what she described as a deeply divided Israeli society. The platform prohibits political content in profiles to maintain neutrality.

The initiative has attracted broad participation, including merging with a similar project called "One Home Votes in Israel." Despite a complaint filed by Likud MK Amit Halevi alleging left-wing bias intended to influence the elections, the founder reiterated the platform's apolitical stance and openness to all voters. To become a host, individuals simply register on the platform, provide details about their accommodation capacity and amenities, and can communicate directly with guests.

The founder also shared her professional background in organizational sociology and gender-focused education, highlighting her work in promoting healthy sexuality education and combating sexual violence. She views the voting accommodation project as a social bridge reflecting her broader commitment to social change and community support.