Reappraising JAFI's Missions in Israel

Publication Date: August 1997

Publisher: Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs

Author(s): Gerald B. Bubis

Research Area: Culture and religion

Keywords: Jewish Organizations; Organizational Development; Israel Attachment; Jewish Unity

Type: Report

Abstract:

The author examines past trends, present issues, and proposals for structural changes as the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) engages in a reexamination of its mission and structure. He argues that Israel's centrality for Jews worldwide is no longer a given; however, many issues still confront and vex world Jewry. He asserts that JAFI remains in potentia a vehicle for connecting Jews and continuing to make a difference in tomorrow's Israel and suggests four possible future models for JAFI: 1) JAFI as a transfer agent of social services to the Israeli government; 2) JAFI as a resource for the expansion of volunteerism and supporter of innovation in Israel; 3) JAFI as a venue for identifying and funneling issues of concern to Jews into Israeli society and its government; and 4) a combination of the first three.