A group of MKs visited the Negev this week to see what they could do to promote development in the area. While the Negev constitutes 60% of Israel’s landmass, it has been neglected by successive governments and remains underdeveloped.
Residents of the Negev described some of the problems facing their communities, including a lack of employment opportunities and cultural institutions. One major problem, they said, is the widespread illegal Bedouin construction, which has led to the loss of 250,000 acres of land and harms development in both the Jewish and non-Jewish sectors.
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In the above video, Negev resident Roni Palmer explains some of the problems facing local communities, while MK Uri Ariel (National Union) talks about what his party plans to do to address the issues.