How we can transform Israel
There were two important pieces in your December 15 edition: “Aliya stereotypes” (Editorial) and, in the magazine section, Orit Arfa’s “The monopoly of the Jewish State” (Observations). Coupled with these was the thoughtful letter in the magazine by reader Jack Davis on the need for electoral reform.
These are not random issues and, in fact, are symptomatic of the biggest challenge facing the country today: How does it transform itself from a fledgling and pioneering entity into a modern democracy?
Electoral reform is an urgent need. In most western democracies, people are represented by those they directly elect from their constituency who therefore are directly responsible to the people. If they fail in their tasks, they will be voted out at the next opportunity.
Democracy demands such representation. A lack of direct contact with the people leaves the electorate frustrated or apathetic.
People who have immigrated to this country from a sophisticated society are accustomed to some semblance of efficiency in government. If they cannot obtain a satisfactory result, they can turn to empowered bodies of independent and experienced people endowed with statutory powers to fine, censure and correct wrongdoings. Too often, people here just give up because they hit a mindless blank wall of bureaucracy or obfuscation. What needs to be done? Divide the country into constituencies and have Knesset members elected by the people in their constituency. Create a system of appeal procedures in key areas – the government, municipalities, banks and other major concerns, eventually spreading to all areas affecting the public and consumers.
Set up a commission looking into cartels and monopolies – too many sectors are in the hands of too few people, which is not only morally wrong, it is a disincentive to free enterprise and a barrier to newcomers. We have been labeled the “Start-up Nation,” but now we need to be a successful nation with opportunities for all. Too often, young people who are extraordinarily well educated with multiple degrees have to accept low-paid work because the commercial system is lopsided. Freeing the economy from its cartel constraints will help improve everyone’s lot and unleash economic growth.
Take a hard look at what the country can afford and what it cannot, without vested interests claiming their excessive share of the pie. And finally, remove religion from politics: The two are mostly incompatible.
The real issue is who are the people who can carry such a vision through and be prepared to fight for what is in reality just common human respect. And procrastination is not an option; we need to see urgent progress made.
PHILIP AARONBERG Jerusalem