SIDREH The case of Sidreh and the situation of Bedouin Women in the Negev The Bedouin population of the Negev Desert suffers from harsh socio-economic conditions There are almost 190,000 Bedouin people in the Negev Desert, making more than 25% of its population. However, they control less than 3% of the area. They are organized as follows 1. Permanent settlements (7)  Urban Settlements with a total population of about 100,000  Among the largest concentrations of poverty and unemployment in Israel  About 77% of Rahat’s residents (the largest Bedouin city in Israel) are supported by National Insurance Institute allowances. 2. The rates of crime and drug use among the Bedouins in the Negev are constantly increasing and the offenders’ age is constantly decreasing. 3. Over 60% are children under the age of 17, while the elderly population (over 65) constitutes no more than 1.5% 4. Its growth rate of 5% a year is one of the highest in the world. 2. Unrecognized settlements (55)  More than 40,000 people  Not considered legal settlements by the Israeli Government  Subject to demolition by the authorities  Ineligible for basic municipal services such as connection to the electrical grid, water mains or garbage services  Between 8 – 10 are in the process of being recognized Bedouin Women are one of the most vulnerable groups as a result of the difficult external conditions, as well as the harsh patriarchal tradition within the community General situation of Bedouin Women in the Negev  Only 6.3% of Arab-Bedouin women have an academic degree according to the numbers from 2007.