inside a kibbutz

Inside a kibbutz

Contrary to popular belief, a kibbutz is not a village - it is a community. It is not accessible through public roads and technically, it is a private “institution”. Kibbutzim, despite having socialist origins, are very democratic in nature. When sensitive issues come up, all the kibbutzniks convene and cast votes. The decision of the majority is followed.

The physical layout of most kibbutzim is usually the same. There is a residential area where one can find homes, gardens, children’s homes, and playgrounds (in a kibbutz, children do not live in the same house as their parents but in Children’s Societies – even caring for children are shared by all); communal facilities which include the dining hall, library, pool, and laundry area; and a livestock area for cattle and chicken (or industrial facilities, depending on the main livelihood of the kibbutz). Kibbutzim also have agricultural fields, ponds and orchards; and these are usually found at the outside perimeter of the commune; easily accessibly by tractor.

Transportation within kibbutzim is very simple. Generally kibbutzniks take a bicycle or use their legs to move about. The elderly travel within the community on manual or electric wheel chairs.

Kibbutzniks contribute to society through their work in one or several of the following industries: Agriculture and Fisheries, Industry and Quarries; Tourism, Commerce and Finance; Transportation and Communication; Building and Utilities; Public and Community Services; and Personal Services.