As a secular, left wing British Jew, I was slightly concerned that my Birthright UK trip to Israel would focus primarily on the religious aspects of Judaism, and promote a narrow minded view of the current political situation. I was pleasantly surprised to find that on the third day of the trip, we were taken on a tour with Lydia Aisenberg from the International Department of Givat Haviva.

Lydia took us on a tour of part of the northern section of the security fence, and explained exactly where the 1967 border was drawn in that area. We also looked out over Moshav Mei Ami on the Amir mountain range, an area of the Northern West Bank where four Jewish settlements are situated close to each other and are encircled by the security fence and Palestinian villages on the other side.

Having studied Arabic and Middle Eastern Politics at University, I was aware of much of the information provided during our brief tour, especially given that British lecturers tend to lean left of the political spectrum regarding Israel! It was enlightening to actually see what I have studied come to life, especially with such an intelligent and animated guide such as Lydia. The majority of the group had not studied the situation in depth and was thus unaware of the many complexities involved. Indeed, many people had no idea what the Green Line is, or when the Oslo Accords were negotiated. Speaking to my friends on the trip, I can safely say that many of them found it to be very rewarding and informative. I personally think that it is extremely important that young Jews from the Diaspora are given the opportunity to experience Israel from a different perspective, and I am extremely glad that Givat Haviva, and Lydia Aisenberg in particular, gave us all the opportunity to do so.

Leo Williams, Birthright UK Trip, June 2005.