“Israel is a wonderful enterprise but has never really understood its minorities.”

The Interviewee – Alan Bolchover, (Born 1973) Director of Fundraising at The Outward Bound Trust. Born  in Manchester, UK, lives in London.

In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?

“It is central to the Jewish People.”

Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?

“I will die for it.”

Do you affiliate yourself with a specific denomination in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox denomination in Israel religious establishment?

“Orthodox. However Orthodoxy should not have a dominance within Israel.”

Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?

“To an extent yes.”

In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?

“They see it as Israel v the Arabs. It is the Jews v the world.”

How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?

“Arrogant and wanting to prove a point (Netanyahu).”

In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?

“Yes.”

Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?

“Of course. It is a wonderful enterprise but has never really understood its minorities.”

Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown? Is it organized? Are there community activities?

“Quite strong in number, but increasingly the Ultra Orthodox grow in number whilst traditional Jews marry out.”