Posted on 02/11/24
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New Data Report Highlights the Rising Numbers
Bet El, Feb 6, 2024: The latest findings from WestBankJewishPopulationStats.com reveal a notable surge in the Jewish population residing in West Bank towns over the past five years. Based on data from the Population Registry of Israel’s Interior Ministry, the report underscores a growth rate approximately double that of the general Jewish population in Israel.
As of January 1, 2024, the West Bank Jewish population stands at 517,407, marking an increase of 67,899 individuals since 2019. This population segment, which constitutes 7.2% of Israel's Jewish population, holds a significant presence in Israeli society. (If one includes Jews residing in eastern neighborhoods of Jerusalem, technically part of the “West Bank,” the sector constitutes over 10% of the total Jewish population.)
The impact of West Bank settlers transcends mere demographic statistics. In the political arena, settler representation has steadily grown to 11 lawmakers, comprising 9.2% of parliament, compared to 7 lawmakers in the 2020 Knesset elections. Current Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs, who sits next to Prime Minister Netanyahu in all cabinet meetings, the Minister of Finance (Smotrich), and the Minister of Internal Security (Ben Gvir) are residents of the West Bank, underlining the increasing political clout of the population segment.
The influence of West Bank settlers is also evident in the military domain. 40-50% of IDF Officers Course graduates originate from the West Bank, sharply disproportionate to the overall percentage of the general population.
Various well-being indicators reflect West Bank settlers' significant societal impact. According to the Central Bureau of Statistics Well-Being Indicators Index, West Bank settlers surpass national averages in 39 criteria, showing a greater priority on strong character development and civic engagement. Notable statistics include lower rates of overweight first-graders, higher levels of community satisfaction, and increased engagement in volunteer work and community service.
With the West Bank settler population on the rise, it is evident that they cannot be overlooked or sidelined. Their growing numbers and influence across various spheres, from government to entrepreneurship, underscore their integral role in Israeli society.
The 2024 West Bank Jewish Population Stats Report, offering comprehensive insights into this demographic's growth, is available at WestBankJewishPopulationStats.com