Emissaries of Israeli NGOs stationed around the world are Israeli citizens
serving their country abroad – but they can’t vote, much to their
frustration.
The only citizens permitted to vote in Israeli embassies and
consulates, according to the Election Law, are diplomats or emissaries who
receive their salary from the Jewish Agency.
Meanwhile, hundreds of
emissaries from youth groups, and religious and educational NGOs – most of whom
are recognized and even trained by the Jewish Agency – are not allowed to
exercise their right to vote unless they fly back to Israel.
Dalia
Shapira, 19 and of Ra’anana, is currently doing National Service (Sherut Leumi)
through religious-Zionist youth group Bnei Akiva in Scarsdale, NY, and was
notified that she cannot vote at the Israeli consulate in New York.
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