Full Breakdown
Israel Launches Cross-Government Data Research Network
2/10/2026, 5:58:10 AM
Overview of the Initiative
Israel has initiated a groundbreaking project named RAKMA (Network for the Advancement of Data Science), aimed at establishing a cross-government research network. This initiative, selected by the Finance Ministry and the National Digital Agency, will enable various ministries to analyze each other's data securely without compromising personal records. The platform, operated by MDClone, is designed to address the longstanding issue of valuable datasets being isolated within individual agencies, which has hindered comprehensive research on multifaceted national issues such as health, welfare, education, taxation, and infrastructure.
Objectives and Functionality
The RAKMA project seeks to create a virtual research environment that links disparate data silos through a secure, distributed platform. Researchers will be able to conduct joint analyses using synthetic, fully de-identified data, thereby facilitating large-scale cross-referencing of sensitive public information while ensuring strict privacy protections and information security controls. This initiative is expected to revolutionize how the Israeli government utilizes data for decision-making and public service improvement.
Key Figures Behind the Initiative
The project is spearheaded by Accountant General Yahli Rothenberg and National Digital Agency Director General Shira Lev Ami. They have emphasized the importance of embedding data sharing as a core value within the government while maintaining public trust and high privacy standards. Senior Deputy Accountant General Evyatar Peretz chairs a special committee overseeing the project, which includes Lev Ami and Merav Peretz-Belinski, Deputy Director General for Data and Artificial Intelligence at the agency.
Official Statements on the Project
Yahli Rothenberg stated, “We are building a national infrastructure that enables cross-government research and broader decision-making while fully safeguarding citizens’ privacy.” Shira Lev Ami highlighted that the initiative is central to enhancing public services, asserting that “embedding data sharing as a core value across government... is critical to building a smarter and more effective public sector.” Evyatar Peretz-Belinski noted that the focus will now shift to implementation and measuring the project's impact on research outcomes across ministries.
Criticism and Concerns
While the initiative has been largely welcomed, some critics express concerns regarding data privacy and the potential misuse of sensitive information. The challenge remains to ensure that the implementation of this system does not compromise individual privacy rights while achieving its intended goals.
What's Next for RAKMA
As the project moves forward, the emphasis will be on effective implementation and the evaluation of its impact on governmental research capabilities. The success of RAKMA will be measured by its ability to improve research outcomes and facilitate informed decision-making across various sectors of the Israeli government.
