The Arab Center for Alternative Planning (ACAP)

The Arab Center for Alternative Planning (ACAP), a non-governmental, non-profit organization located in Eilaboun, Israel (Galilee), was established in December 2000. ACAP has developed into a national address that represents the genuine needs and interests of the Arab citizens of Israel on issues of planning, land, housing, and development. In January 2004, ACAP was recognized by the Ministry of the Interior as a public organization with the legal right to intervene in official planning procedures, and file objections to national, district and local plans as an independent legal entity. This was a landmark achievement since ACAP is the first-ever and only Arab organization in Israel that holds recognized official status from the Ministry of Interior as a public organization with the legal right to interfere in official planning procedures, and file objections against any local, regional, or national plan that adversely affects the interests and rights of the Arab minority. ACAP works towards equality and integration of Israel’s Arab citizens into public life activities, while preserving their cultural features and national identity, and closing existing gaps between Jewish and Arab citizens of Israel in various spheres of life, including housing, planning, infrastructure, transportation, social services, education, environment, and employment. ACAP advances these aims and serves the Arab population through a highly professional team of urban planners and other relevant professionals.