Israel’s seventh national census program, the first since 2008, was launched by President Isaac Herzog at the Knesset on Monday.
The Census Bureau will survey roughly 700,000 people – 7% of Israel’s population – on demographic-related questions, such as age, gender, education level, work and more. Data collection began on April 3 and will continue until November 30, 2022. The questionnaire can be answered online, by phone, or via a face-to-face interview.
“The census is a vital tool for a functioning and modern state,” said Herzog. “The population census is essential so that a state like ours, a member of the OECD, an advanced state in very many senses, can base itself on the data for everything it does.”
Israel last conducted a census in 2008. The country typically surveys its population every 10-15 years. Israel has hosted a census in 2008, 1995, 1983, 1972, 1961 and 1948.
“I know this is very difficult and complicated work. There are many elements at play. To everyone involved in this work, I wish great success. May we receive the statistics in the end and be able to use them,” said Herzog, who became the first citizen to fill out a census form.
Central Bureau of Statistics Director Prof. Danny Pfeffermann further supported the need for the census, saying, “Census data provides a demographic snapshot of the whole of Israeli society, socially and economically, and helps in planning and improving our common future.
“I call on everyone in the population sample to cooperate, both as good and loyal citizens who want what is good for the country, and also so we may receive the best services that a civilized country can give its citizens,” he said.