Life on hold: Bedouin youth, counter-terrorism charges, and the social work implications of criminalization in Israel

Abstract This article explores the lived experiences of fourteen Bedouin youth from southern Israel, who were arrested following the May 2021 protests, and charged under Israel’s Counter-Terrorism Law. The young men, most of whom had no prior criminal records, were held for extended periods under harsh conditions, including solitary confinement and severe post-release restrictions. Through in-depth qualitative interviews, this study examines their perceptions of the arrest, interrogation, and ongoing legal processes, as well as the broader emotional, social, and psychological consequences of these experiences. Thematic analysis reveals four central themes: the sense of life ‘before and after’ the arrest, life on hold, accelerated maturation and social disconnection, and continuous trauma. These findings underscore the long-term harms of criminalization and securitization for minority youth, particularly in contexts of ethnic tension and political marginalization. The article highlights the urgent need for trauma-informed social work practices and culturally responsive mental health services in minority communities. It further examines the ethical and practical challenges social workers face in navigating legal systems that may perpetuate structural inequalities. The study calls for critical reflection on the role of social work in conflict-affected areas and advocates for a human rights-oriented approach to youth justice and community care.