Flights and Time Off Work: The High Cost of Voting in Israel

After nearly 20 years living in Canada, Yael Natra decided to return to Israel to take part in the elections, reversing a position she had held throughout her years abroad.

Until then, she had not considered making the journey to vote. She believed it was inappropriate to cast a ballot in a country where she no longer lived.

Her decision brings into focus the practical costs of returning to participate in an election, from airline tickets to time away from work.

For Natra, the trip also marks a change in how she approaches voting from abroad. After years of staying out of elections in Israel, she has chosen to make the journey back and have her say.