A Home under Threat: The Meanings of Home among Bedouin Children in the
Unrecognized Villages in Israel: A Context-informed Perspective
Abstract
This article explores the concept of home among 25 Bedouin children aged
4–6 from unrecognized villages in the Negev, southern Israel. These
children live in harsh conditions due to ongoing socio-political
conflict and the threat of house demolition, with limited access to
infrastructure and basic services. The study uses drawing activities and
interviews to reveal how children perceive home, showing it as both a
source of protection and risk. Five key themes emerge: (1) the concept
of home for Bedouin children, (2) perceptions of police and their roles,
(3) experiences of home demolition by police, (4) the home as a source
of emotional distress, and (5) children’s coping mechanisms. Family,
rituals, and attachments play crucial roles in providing emotional
security, while nature and community offer safety. The study underscores
the need for culturally sensitive interventions and improved
infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of considering children’s
perspectives in policy-making that affects their living conditions.