Israeli Economists Warn of Imminent Socio-Economic Collapse
130 senior Israeli economists have issued a stark warning about the impending dangers facing Israel. They point out that the current policies related to the exemption of ultra-Orthodox youth from conscription, combined with significant financial support for educational institutions that eschew core studies, are steering the country towards a socio-economic abyss.
In a detailed letter, the economists highlight three principal issues affecting Israel: security, economy, and social structure. They argue that the strain on reserve officers is unsustainable, with soldiers expected to serve dramatically more days in reserve duty each year. This burden, they claim, not only affects the individuals directly involved but also has widespread negative effects on the economy and society at large. Companies may be less inclined to hire reservists, leading to a wave of migration abroad of the most educated and skilled workers.
On the economic front, the economists criticize the government's funding of ultra-Orthodox schools that do not provide students with crucial skills for the modern labor market. They state that the ongoing financial support for a lifestyle that prioritizes non-work and high birth rates strains the economy. According to calculations, while ultra-Orthodox households receive significant monthly financial support from the state, non-Orthodox households end up contributing more in taxes. This imbalance, they argue, could deteriorate the standard of living and the state's ability to provide basic services.
The Urgent Need for Reform
The social implications of these policies are equally concerning. The economists warn that the growing proportion of the ultra-Orthodox population, financed largely by the productive public, will increase their political power, potentially compromising Israel's liberal and democratic values. They foresee a future where the socio-political landscape could be drastically altered, leading to increased sectoral legislation that imposes religious values on broader society.
The letter concludes with a dire prediction: without a significant shift in current policies, Israel faces a 'spiral of collapse.' The economists propose comprehensive reforms in education, security burden distribution, and constitutional changes to secure liberal rights and prevent future socio-economic damage. They stress that action must be taken immediately to avert these impending crises.
Among the notable signatories are prominent figures like Prof. Eitan Shashinsky, Prof. Manuel Trachtenberg, and Prof. Avi Ben Best, alongside former public service officials such as David Brodt and Keren Turner. They collectively urge the state’s leadership to recognize the urgency of the situation and take immediate remedial action.
- The letter published by the economists has prompted significant discussion and concern among various sectors in Israel. The warning is seen as a call to action for both the public and policymakers.
- Protests and demonstrations have already begun to emerge. For instance, Highway 4 was recently blocked by a faction protesting against the recruitment of ultra-Orthodox youth. This demonstrates the growing tension and the urgency of addressing the outlined issues.
- Reservists and active military personnel are also becoming increasingly vocal about the unsustainable burden placed upon them. Many fear that the heightened reserve duty obligations could negatively impact their professional and personal lives, adding to the broader societal strain.
- There is a growing consensus among different professional ranks that the issues outlined by the economists must be prioritized in public discourse. The call to prevent a 'national collapse' is gaining traction as more individuals and organizations rally for immediate and effective policy changes.
