Major Israeli Media Neglects the Need to Educate Arab Citizens About the Coronavirus

To:
Minister of Communications, Dudi Amsalem
Chairman of the Second Television and Radio Authority, Yulia Shamalov-Berkowitz
Chairman of the Press Council, Judge (Retired) Dalia Dorner

Dear All,

We express deep concern about the lack of adequate communication and education provided to Arab citizens in Israel regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19), its prevention, and methods to combat its spread.

Currently, major Israeli media outlets are tasked with disseminating critical, up-to-date information between state authorities and citizens about the pandemic. However, we are witnessing a troubling phenomenon: the major media channels in Israel are neglecting the needs of Arab citizens, who constitute 20% of the population.

Media Neglect of the Arab Population

• Keshet 12 and Channel 13 news channels have dedicated long hours to reporting the Coronavirus and its impact on the population. Yet, these broadcasts fail to address the needs of Arabic-speaking citizens.
• We were dismayed to learn that the weekly Arabic-language news program on Channel 13 was removed from the schedule approximately two weeks ago. According to a report on The Seventh Eye website, this decision was attributed to the need for regular daily updates due to the current crisis. However, this explanation neglects the urgent need for Arab citizens to receive similar regular updates in their native language.

Urgent Actions Required

As policymakers and leaders, we call on you to take immediate steps to ensure that Arab citizens receive comprehensive and accurate information regarding COVID-19 and its economic, health, and social implications. Specifically, we request the following:

1. Daily News Programs in Arabic:
   • Reinstate a daily Arabic-language news program on Keshet 12 and Reshet 13 channels.
2. Arabic Translation for Broadcasts:
   • Include Arabic translations in all major news broadcasts to ensure accessibility for Arabic-speaking citizens.
3. Targeted Programming for the Arab Population:
   • Create dedicated programs addressing issues specific to the Arab population, including:
     • Risks of contracting the virus.
     • Methods for prevention and mitigation.
     • Guidance on accessing economic and social support systems.

We are more than willing to offer assistance in any form to support this critical initiative.

About the Arab Economic Forum

The Arab Economic Forum is an independent, non-profit center for social and economic policy research. Our mission is to conduct applied studies and develop policies aimed at improving the social and economic conditions of the Arab-Palestinian community in Israel.

The Forum operates under the guidance of a Board of Directors comprising respected academics and public figures in Israel and abroad. Financially and administratively independent, the Forum is committed to equality, inclusivity, and the integration of financial education for the Arab population in Israel.

Our Vision

We envision a future where Arab citizens in Israel have equal opportunities in all areas of life, including access to vital public information and education during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

We respectfully urge you to address these issues as soon as they are required.

Best regards,

Dr. Sami Miaari
Co-founder and Executive Director of the Arab Economic Forum, Arab Economic Forum

Dr. Maha Karkabi Sabbah 
Executive Manager, Arab Economic Forum

Copy:

• CEO of 12 News: Avi Weiss
• CEO of 13 News: Israel Twito