Arab integration in new and established mixed cities in Israel

Abstract

The segregation or integration of minority groups is a core issue in contemporary urban fabrics. The literature tends to highlight the difference between ethnic groups while diversity within them receives less attention. This study addresses such differences by looking at Arab residents of ethnically mixed Israeli cities. Specifically, it highlights religious affiliation and community standing (in terms of being an old/new city) by comparing three Arab subgroups: Muslims and Christians from Haifa and Christians from Nof HaGalil. Uncovering these variations, we use Schnell’s multidimensional model of segregation/integration relating to 12 dimensions of economic, social, cultural and emotional capitals. The study employed 222 questionnaires and GPS loggers to track the respondents’ daily movements. The results reflected different patterns of integration/segregation between the three communities, with Haifa Christians exhibiting wider and deeper integration compared with Nof HaGalil’s Christian residents and Haifa Muslims. Additionally, the high diversity within each group demonstrates the complexities of integration/segregation processes combining structural issues and personal choices.