An alternative plan for migrants
In response to “Why the government should reconsider its decision to expel or incarcerate African refugees” (January 9), there is an alternative to prison or deportation.
Deportation seems a reasonable solution when there is no reason to fear that the deportees might be slaughtered. As for imprisonment, the incarceration of able-bodied people for an indefinite period without trial is not only inhumane, it is expensive and counterproductive. Imprisonment does not improve people’s ability to deal with life’s problems.
Israel has had great experience in dealing with refugees and homeless people at a time when it had fewer resources. The kibbutzim are a magnificent example of groups of people with a common goal working together to build a viable society. Something similar is suggested here.
Refugees should form small groups, and each group should appoint a leader. The groups should then choose from a range of social possibilities: for example, to start a kibbutz, build a village, create a green environment or a small, self-supporting town while using the latest technology and inventions such as the recycling of water, the use of unusual building materials, sun power, hydroponics and wall crops.
Entrepreneurs, inventors, start-ups firms, ecologists – anyone interested in trying out their ideas – could apply to take part in this social experiment. University sociology departments would naturally want to monitor the relative successes or failures (and get grants to do so).
Other countries with similar problems might also want to take part, as natural catastrophes cause homelessness and wars create refugees.
The groups would need instruction and education. Among the present prison population are many well-educated, skilled people guilty of nonviolent crimes who might welcome the chance to use their abilities in a freer environment. This would also be a grand opportunity for retired teachers and other pensioners to give of their time and expertise.
There are so many trades to be learned, and languages, too. The immigrants would have to work by day and study by night. The sanction for failing to remain with the group is obvious – deportation. EDNA CHAYEN Petah Tikva The writer is a lawyer and criminologist.