FROM THE EDITOR
Hiddai Wagschal 

During both routine and emergency periods, the Ministry of Public Security works continuously towards providing personal security to the residents of the State of Israel, preventing crime and assisting in the rehabilitation of those who have descended to crime.

We live in an era when the authorities responsible for civilian security are challenged with the sensitive balance between the war against terror and the war against crime, as can be read in Minister Dicter's speech before thousands of senior law enforcement officials in the United States, and in our Director General’s concept for public security as our future unfolds. In addition, this year's edition of Innovation Exchange focuses on the research and development within the Ministry and its agencies.

It is essential to point out that all of the Ministry's activities are done for the community, as part of the community and in cooperation with the community, an aspect that has been emphasized in our journal. Thus,
in the article about Metzilah Dimona, the Ministry's Community and Crime Prevention Division's work comes to light as it operates in dozens of cities throughout the country in full cooperation with the local municipalities, all in order to strengthen the community and prevent violence.

The Israel Prison Service opens its gates to the community and the reader showing a unique photography exhibition within prison walls and the exceptional program in which drama students and inmates take part.
In another article one can read about the Israel Police's focus on the younger generation in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, working with grade school pupils in its "Elementary Security" program.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the co-editor, Ms. Judy Rudman, for the long hours of cooperation prior to publishing each edition and for the many years she served in the Information Services Unit in the Ministry.

I hope you enjoy reading this "Innovation Exchange" as much as I enjoyed editing it.
 
Hiddai Wagschal
Head, Information Services Unit
Ministry of Public Security