Monthly Archives: November 2011

How the IDF Helps to Promote Special Populations

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In 1981, the IDF launched a special program at the ‘Havat HaShomer’ base intended to promote and help populations in need. The Center for Promoting Special Populations (MAKAM) is unique: it is the only program in the IDF that puts the individual’s needs during his mandatory service as its top priority and doesn’t serve as a substitute for any other educational program. Yesterday, the IDF marked the 30th anniversary of the program.

The populations considered as ‘special’ are usually uneducated youth, populations with a problematic social-economic background, populations who have a criminal background, minorities and new immigrants. The center qualifies these populations, which will otherwise not adapt to the IDF, for a meaningful and contributing service which will later on help them in adapting in work and life after their military service.

Paratrooper Lt. Nissim Buzalgo, graduate of the MAKAM program

Lt. Nissim Buzaglo, Officar at the Paratroopers Brigade, graduate of the MAKAM program. (Photo: Noa Adar, BaMahane)

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Ten Fundamental Values – The Spirit of the IDF

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Every IDF soldier is handed a card-sized copy of the “Spirit of the IDF”, a concise summary of Israel’s most cherished values and principles. Soldiers are exhorted to carry it around with them at all times and are instructed to live up to the principled contained therein.

During every soldier’s basic training, the “Spirit of the IDF” is read and analyzed in depth together with their commanders. It is customary for a framed copy of the “Spirit of the IDF” to be hung in every office to be a constant reminder of the IDF’s values and guidelines.

Spirit of the IDF card

Card-sized copy of the "Spirit of the IDF"

The “Spirit of the IDF” has three fundamental values:

  1. Defense of the State, its Citizens and Residents – The purpose of the IDF is to protect the existence of the state of Israel, its independence, and the security of its citizens and residents.
  2. Patriotism and Loyalty to the State – Service in the IDF is based on patriotism and on commitment and devotion to the State of Israel – a democratic state which is the national home of the Jewish people – and to its citizens and residents.
  3. Human Dignity – The IDF and its soldiers are obligated to preserve human dignity. All human beings are of inherent values regardless of race, creed, nationality, gender, status or role.

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