State to fund private immigration groups

For the first time in its history, Israel will support private organizations that encourage immigration. The cabinet decided yesterday to give organizations that meet certain criteria, financial aid of up to $1,000 per immigrant.

The retroactive grants, starting with immigration for 2005, would benefit organizations that offer immigrants financial assistance upon their move to Israel. The decision sets a precedent; until now, the Jewish Agency had sole responsibility for encouraging immigration.

The Jewish Agency reacted coolly yesterday to the cabinet decision. The organization's spokesman said yesterday "it is a good thing in and of itself when the government decides to invest in encouraging immigration."

The only organization that meets the criteria is the Jewish-American organization "Nefesh b'Nefesh," which seeks to encourage emigration from North America. This angers those involved in encouraging immigration from France, who say it discriminates against French Jews. Haaretz has learned the initiative also engenders opposition at the Finance Ministry.

Prime Minister Ariel Sharon initiated the precedent-setting decision, which was drafted by Prime Minister's Office director general Ilan Cohen. Sharon emphasized yesterday in his comments that he attaches "tremendous importance" to encouraging immigration. "This to me is the most important thing there is, and everyone must be on board with this mission," he told his ministers. "I propose that each of you consider encouraging immigration a central issue during your travels abroad."

The decision stipulates that the private organizations must meet certain conditions for financial support. They must have been operating for at least a year before the decision was made in the country where they function and offer services on an egalitarian basis to all.

Nefesh b'Nefesh, formed in 2001, praised the decision yesterday. Ami, which works with immigrants from France, fails to meet the criteria as it was established only eight months ago. Ami head Avi Zana said he hopes the cabinet will recognize the organization soon and noted that France has the highest potential for immigration in the West. "I see no reason that French immigrants be treated differently from those from North America," Zana said.