The Regional Council of Unrecognized Villages Statement of Principles

Hello,
In 2007 the Israeli government created a commission charged with making recommendations on how to solve the problem of the Bedouin in the Negev. We expect their recommendations in the coming days.
As I’m sure you are aware, there are 45 villages with a combined population of more than 80,000 people, all citizens of Israel and therefore deserving the same rights before the law as Jewish citizens in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. Despite this, the Israeli government refuses to provide them with basic infrastructure and services, such as water, electricity, sewage, garbage collection, paved roads, or medical services within the villages. The purpose for this lack of recognition is a stated policy goal of eradicating the traditional Bedouin way of life by making life as difficult and unpleasant as possible, thus forcing them to move to cities and settled towns.
We at the Regional Council of Unrecognized Villages are circulating the attached statement of principles among local and international organizations with whom we work on behalf of the unrecognized villages. We would like to count on your support with us, and your agreement to sign this statement showing your organization’s support will help us take the next step towards achieving recognition. Please read the attached .pdf and email us back either confirming or disconfirming your willingness to sign this statement.
Thank you very much!
The Regional Council of Unrecognized Villages