Israel's tenth President to focus on bridging gaps and strengthening democratic values

Meirav Cohen, Minister of Social Equality: “Employers should be given incentives to choose older workers”

Avigdor Liberman, Minister of Finance, opened the first day of the 2021 Eli Hurvitz Conference on Economy and Society, saying: “We are after more than three years of political crisis without a budget, reforms or legislation. The economy ran on a kind of autopilot. We will now pursue a responsible policy, without deep cuts.

“Two challenges hover above the rest – a stock market bubble and inflation”

Minister of Environmental Protection Tamar Zandberg, Minister of Energy Karin Elharar, Minister of Transportation Merav Michaeli and Minister of Economy Orna Barbibai in a joint declaration at IDI's Conference: "We will cooperate on Israel's climate policy, to lead to an 85% reduction in Israel's greenhouse gas emissions by 2050."

As part of his role at the Institute, Nissenkorn will promote initiatives focused on adapting the labor market to the post-COVID era, to improve government function and to fortify IDI’s efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law.

It is with great sadness and a profound sense of loss that the Israel Democracy Institute acknowledges the passing of Secretary George P. Shultz, one of the greatest statesmen of the twentieth century.

IDI Vice President Prof. Yuval Shany on the decision by the International Criminal Court in The Hague (ICC): "It will be a long time before the investigations mature into indictments or arrest warrants."

Israeli Democracy Index 2020 reveals the lowest point in a decade in the public's trust in all public institutions and government officials—particularly in the Knesset and the Supreme Court – as well as major erosion of the public’s sense of social solidarity.

Israeli Democracy Index 2020 reveals sharp decline in assessment of relations between the police and the public since the outbreak of COVID-19. A majority of Israelis believe that the police does not take criticism seriously

Israeli Democracy Index 2020 included a focus on Israel’s healthcare system and found higher levels of satisfaction with HMOs than with hospitals and public trust in Sick Funds is higher than in any other public institution surveyed

The Israel Democracy Institute has renamed its renowned center for public opinion and research in honor of Dr. Andrew J. Viterbi.

2020 report finds that Ultra-Orthodox men do not support an egalitarian division of domestic tasks. Only one-third of ultra-Orthodox Israelis believe that paid employment is the best way for women to achieve independence.

The 2020 Statistical Report on Ultra-Orthodox Society in Israel found that over the last five years there has been a 38% increase in the number of ultra-Orthodox students in technological training tracks. The most in-demand subjects in academia are education and teaching, social sciences, and computer science.
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The new report finds that employment rates for ultra-Orthodox women continue to rise, while those for ultra-Orthodox men remain stagnant; household income for ultra-Orthodox families is 58% lower than other Jewish Israeli households; and over the last five years - a 33% increase in the number of yeshiva and kollel students in Israel

As part of the IDI Eli Hurvitz Conference on Economy and Society, a session was held on December 16, 2020 with the participation of Health Minister Yuli Edelstein, Director General of the Ministry of Health Prof. Chezy Levy, and a number of experts in the field of health who are responsible for preparing the health system for emergencies and crises.

Dr. Aliza Block, mayor of Bet Shemesh:"The idea that a senior official sits in Jerusalem and knows how to decide for me which streets or stations to close is fundamentally wrong."

Defense Minister Benny Gantz: "Elections should be avoided, there should be a budget and a functioning government; I have no intention of replacing Avi Nissenkorn – he is doing a good job and we are committed to preserving democracy and judicial institutions."

The labor market panel at the Israel Democracy Institute’s Eli Hurvitz Conference on Economics and Society dealt with the challenges and opportunities of the employment market in the post-Covid era.

As part of the Israel Democracy Institute’s Eli Hurvitz Conference on Economy and Society, a panel took place with the participation of Minister of Education Yoav Galant and a number of education experts, focusing on preparing the education system for the post-COVID reality. Eli Hurvitz, executive director of the Trump Foundation, served as chair of the panel.

The Israel Democracy Institute’s Eli Hurvitz's Conference on Economics and Society opened today with a session titled "From Recession to Growth: Macroeconomic Policy" focusing on ways to accelerate Post-COVID economic growth in Israel.

For the past two years, the Israel Democracy Institute, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environmental Protection, the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Finance, and the OECD, has been leading a multi-sectoral and cross-ministerial process.

Chen Lichtenstein, Chief Financial Officer, Syngenta Ventures: “Tthe challenges and complications a small country like Israel faces, is a drop in the ocean by comparison. Israel should be able to easily make decisions of the same explicit impact – the word zero is critical.”

"If you look at the S & P, close to 86% of companies today report on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compared to a decade ago" said Anat Levin, CEO, BlackRock Israel, on the topic of how the global financial market adapts itself to ESG

As part of the Israel Democracy Institute’s Eli Hurvitz Conference on Economy and Society, a panel was held (Dec. 14th) on the implications of the global crisis on Israel, including the labor market and the question of the budget, US–Europe–Israel relations in the Biden era, changes in times of crisis and routine, and preparedness for future challenges.

A new survey conducted by the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) examined Israeli's attitudes toward climate change and the possible steps to stem the tide.

Two bills based on the IDI research and policy proposals passed preliminary votes in the Knesset. The first anchors the right to equality in Israeli law and the second is a bill regulating digital election campaigns.

The second day of the Israel Democracy Institute's Center for National Security and Democracy annual conference, held in partnership with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (Israel office), concluded today (Wednesday). The online conference focused on public trust in the IDF, the militarization of a civilian crisis, the IDF model of service and gender equality in the military.

IDI's annual conference on National Security and Democracy, held in partnership with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (Israel office), convened top officers and academic experts to discuss the changing relations between the IDF and Israeli society and draw lessons for the future from the military’s unprecedented involvement in the civilian COVID-19 crisis.

The Israel Democracy Institute held the first day of the inaugural "Reimagining Democracy" conference - in commemoration of the late Prof. Yaron Ezrahi. The sessions focused on the future of the relationship between the branches of government and the increasing tension between them.

“Polarity in Israeli society has never been worse” says Chairman of Yisrael Beiteinu Party, MK Avigdor Liberman at two-day conference on the relationship between Zionism and Democracy commemorating 25 Years after the assassination of PM Yitzhak Rabin

Twenty-five years after the assassination of the late Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, the Israel Democracy Institute, together with the Department of Zionist Enterprises in the World Zionist Organization, hosted a special conference focused on the unique relationship between Zionism and democracy in Israel and how the country is coping with threats to the values articulated in Declaration of Independence. 

IDI Leadership on Law Limiting Protests: "A Violation of the Most Basic Tenets of Democracy"

New IDI survey: Only 27% trust PM Netanyahu to lead efforts against COVID-19. 32% support current government restrictions & 29% supporting additional measures. 61% of Jewish Israelis don't plan on attending any Yom Kippur services.

At a session of a conference on "Policy or Culture?” held by IDI and the Sapir Academic College, Minister Chili Tropper spoke of the need for culture to fortify society and not fall victim to divisive discourse

Dr. Gilad Malach, Director of IDI's Ultra-Orthodox in Israel program on MK Ya'acov Litzman's resignation from the Cabinet: "Indicative of a very strong sentiment among the ultra-Orthodox community where there is currently a high level of distrust of government policies." 

As Israelis approach the Jewish new year, they are skeptical about the country's collective mood but personally optimistic about the future. The Israeli public is also pleased about the expected treaty with the UAE and skeptical about the longevity of the government.

“Meridor's resignation raises serious concerns that management of the worst economic crisis Israel has encountered in recent decades is characterized by a lack of systematic policies or priorities" 

"This fast-tracked legislation, that is intended to allow the cabinet to put further restrictions in place without approval from Knesset committees, is yet another example of chaos and an inability of the government to manage the coronavirus crisis."

Israelis Uncertain Regarding Sovereignty in the West Bank – Most Think Unlikely to be Implemented in the Next Year | As COVID-19 Numbers Rise – 60% of Israelis Fear Their Economic Future

IDI and the Hebrew University held a conference on the ‘Future of Democracy’ in memory of Prof. Yaron Ezrahi featuring former Prime Minister Tony Blair and Pulitzer Prize columnist Thomas Friedman

Following the Cabinet's decision to introduce the ISA Surveillance Law to the Knesset, Dr. Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler, says that "use of ISA surveillance provides a false sense of security."

Dr. Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler on the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee debate on contact tracing: "Permission to reintroduce the ISA's tracking program should not be granted."

The attempt to circumvent the Supreme Court's ruling and strengthen the Rabbinate's monopoly and endanger the fragile balance in place today

Prof. Amichai Cohen explains the Supreme Court's decision to strike down the Land Arrangements law.

Dr. Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler on why she supports the decision to halt ISA surveillance of covid-19 positive Israelis.

More than half of Israelis think a second wave is a matter of time and 39% think that the return to normalcy is too fast

Knesset members should be available for parliamentary legislation and oversight

Allowing Netanyahu to form a government would constitute a conflict of interest and would result in a negative and irreversible precedent for the rule of law

IDI Coronavirus Survey finds that nearly half the population is pessimistic about Israel’s economic prospects

Special IDI Independence Day survey 92.5% of Jewish-Israelis and 77% of Arab-Israelis feel a part of Israel and its problems.

IDI Expert Dr. Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler: "Now is the time for the appropriate regulatory authorities to act and protect the privacy of Zoom's users."

Special Coronavirus survey by the Israel Democracy Institute takes the Israeli pulse on the impact of the Coronavirus finds that 40% of Israelis feel they are experiencing high levels of stress and 65% are worried about their financial future.

In light of the Movement Towards a National Emergency Government: 30 Ministers Would be Excessive in Comparison to other Parliamentary Democracies; The cap on the number of ministers and their deputy minister should remain in place.

Yohanan Plesner, President of the Israel Democracy Institute, reacted to the Speaker of the Knesset Yuli Edelstein's resignation

IDI Statement to Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein: Convene the Knesset Plenum without delay; failure to do so blatantly exceeds the bounds of your office and constitutes an unacceptable disregard for basic rules of democracy

Just as in parliaments around the world - the Israeli Knesset must resume its work.

With only a few days to the Elections, the February Israeli Voice Index finds that Jewish Israelis are Paying Less Attention, while a Majority of Arab Israelis are Following with the Same or Increased Interest. 30% of the Public Predicts a Fourth Election.

At IDI's conference Former Defense Minister MK Avigdor Liberman said he will not advance the recruitment plan he had drafted with the Ministry of Defense. "Every 18-year-old will be required to enlist."

The Israel Democracy Institute has submitted a professional opinion to the chair of the Central Elections Committee, Justice Neal Hendel, asking the Committee to prohibit the use of election-management software until appropriate regulations for its use are in place.

The January Israeli Voice Index reveals that more Israelis support Israeli recognition of a Palestinian state than those who oppose it.

The Israel Democracy Institute Names Former Bank of Israel Governor Karnit Flug William Davidson Fellow - new partnership will focus on ensuring Israel’s continued economic vitality.

"More Yeshiva students" and "Haredi women are driving growth" - are just some of the highlights of the new report.

Israel finds itself in yet another unprecedented moment and has officially entered the campaign period for a third national elections in less than 12 months. How can we prevent this from happening again in the future?

International Experts Gather at IDI to Debate Populism and its Implications for Democracies as Israeli Electoral Deadlock Continues

MK Avigdor Liberman at IDI Annual Conference on Security and Democracy: "I fully trust the security forces know how to deal with threats in a professional manner uninfluenced by outside biases"

Yohanan Plesner opened the annual Security and Democracy conference saying: "Our challenge is to preserve the value of mamlahtiut (stateliness) in the 'people's army', especially in a polarized country like Israel."

IDI experts issue a statement calling for the Knesset to form a special House Committee to debate immunity

As events unfold, IDI puts out a statement on the Attorney General's breaking announcement to indict Prime Minister Netanayhau

In response to the Ease of Doing Business 2020 index that was published this morning, Daphna Aviram-Nitzan, director of the Center for Governance and Economics at the Israel Democracy Institute, who leads the regulation reduction project at the Institute, commented on Israel moving up 14 slots to the 35th place after 5 points improvement last year.

After Netanyahu returns mandate to the President: Most Israelis support a system based on 2 large parties and a Netanyahu-Gantz rotation for the position of prime minister. 53.5% of Israelis think Netanyahu should resign immediately, while almost half (47%) of right-wing voters believe that Netanyahu should resign if indicted.

With Yom Kippur (the Day of Attornment) upon us, our Guttman Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research checked how Israelis plan on marking the most solemn day in the Jewish calendar.

An unprecedented decision that adversely affects the status of the Attorney General and constituted a misuse of political power by a transitional government.

Excerpts from the presentation of Prof. Karnit Flug, IDI’s newly appointed Vice President, at the ‘Globes’ Governors Conference”

Two and a half weeks ahead of the elections, a special IDI survey reveals that the Israeli public gives government economic policies a failing grade and supports increasing the budgets allocated to health, education, welfare, and public transportation services

Even though most Israelis support opening businesses & public transportation on Shabbat issues of religion and state will not decide the September elections

A special IDI survey examined attitudes of right wing voters and found that 42% of right-wing voters support a unity government and that 43% oppose additional political power for elected officials at the expense of the Judicial Branch of government.

New IDI Campaign to Warn Against Attempts to Decimate Supreme Court and Grant Unlimited Power to Politicians

It wastes public funds, impairs government efficiency, and hinders its capacity to promote policy

The Israel Democracy Institute calls on Parties to Demand Strengthening of 'Rule of Law' and 'Separation of Power's in Coalition Agreements.

The Israel Democracy Institute, the Kohelet Forum, Israel 2050, The National Union of Israeli Students, and the Israel Leadership Forum have joined together to call for the implementation of a "primaries on Election Day" system in Israel. This approach is often referred to among academics as the "semi-open ballot"

Half of the Jews in Israel support expanding the freedom of activity of non-Orthodox Jewish streams - what do Israeli Jews think about religious services offered in Israel?

IDI is calling to amend the Kashrut Supervision Bill, so that instead of creating an additional layer of intermediaries, the market will be open, transparent and regulated by Rabbinate authorized rabbis.

The Israel Democracy Institute’s management announced its support for the LGBTQ’s struggle to amend the newly passed Surrogacy Law so as to included gay couples.

The Israel Democracy Institute on the Ministry of Finance and Rabbinate's decision to preserve the Rabbinate’s monopoly over the kashrut market in Israel: the consumer will be the one to pay 

IDI on the Rabbinate’s publication on the recognition of rabbinical courts abroad: "A potential strategic blow to Israel’s connection with Diaspora Jewry and a serious operative problem for many Jews in Israel"

A special survey conducted by the Guttman Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research at the
Israel Democracy Institute finds: The majority of the Israeli public fears that implementation of the Override Clause by the Knesset will give unlimited power to politicians and lead to an increase in political corruption

Featuring two book launches: “Haredim A Guide to their Beliefs and Sectors” and “A Flock with No Shepherd: Shas Leadership the Day after Rabbi Ovadia Yosef”

After months of preparation, we are proud to inaugurate, along with the Tel-Aviv-Yafo Municipality, the Democracy Pavilion, celebrating 70 years of Israel’s independence. A unique multi-media experience, in full 360-degree technology, showcasing the values embedded in Israel’s Declaration of Independence and the historic highlights of 70 years of independence.

President Reuven Rivlin, Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked,Leader of the Israeli Labor Party Avi Gabbai and State Prosecutor Shai Nitzan relate to tensions surrounding the prime minister's investigations and the coalition crisis at a special conference held last night with Makor Rishon

Monthly survey also finds that 84.5% of Israeli public defines mood as good or very good while 43% expresses trust in Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Following the resignation of Attorney Lior Lotan, the Prime Minister’s envoy for captives and missing persons and the Israeli Defense Minister's comment that "Israel will not ‘repeat the mistake’ of freeing terrorists" there is an urgent need to outline clear criteria for returning captives.

Yesh Atid, Zionist Camp and Meretz have the strongest online presence, while the Joint List and Yisrael Beiteinu lag behind.

Monthly Peace Index also finds that 65% of Israelis do not trust Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the crisis on Temple Mount. 

Leaders of the Israel Democracy Institute call for alternative proposal that would place nation-state of the Jewish people on equal footing with democratic obligation to equality for all Israeli citizens.

'There is no justification for preemptively disqualifying all rabbis and approving only those who have proven themselves to be kosher.'

Latest Peace Index: More than half of Jewish and Arab Israelis see high chances of war between Hamas and Israel in coming year

Study results: Grave failures in the functioning of the councils and in the religious services they provide

'The longer we fail to give equal rights and recognition to the non-Orthodox streams of Judaism, the deeper the fissure between Israel and Jews of the Diaspora will become'

‘Contrary to earlier reports, there is no similarity between the proposed code of ethics and the American code’

“Such an ethical code tramples freedom of expression with a heavy foot."

Post Trump visit: 59% of Jewish public - low chance of U.S. President bringing Israelis, Palestinians back to negotiating table

The Israel Democracy Institute responded Thursday to the proposed bill to cancel the seniority system and deferral of deliberations on choosing Esther Hayut as the president of the Supreme Court, saying such steps harm the basic principles of the work of the judicial branch.

With the featured participation of: Bank of Israel Governor, Education Minister, Economy Minister, Director-General of the Finance Ministry, Director-General of the Prime Minister Office, Chairman of the Histadrut Labor Federation, Director-General of Bank Leumi, Director General of Microsoft Israel and other VIPs

Police-Society Forum convenes at IDI to discuss issues related to law, order and enforcement among Israeli citizens

IDI President Yohanan Plesner said of this latest development: “While one hand in the government is taking significant steps to diminish regulation and improve human resources in the public service, the other hand is harming these efforts.

The Guttman Center for Public Opinion and Policy Research (then the Guttman Center) carried out a series of surveys just before, during and after the war.

IDI scholar recommends adopting a proposed amendment to Basic Law: The Knesset, aimed at penalizing Knesset committee members who are invited to testify or submit information but do not comply.

‘The bill will harm nonprofit organizations that lend a helping hand to humanitarian purposes like assisting Syrian children’

In order to grant better, cheaper and friendlier kosher certification, we must privatize the kosher certification system, break up the Chief Rabbinate’s monopoly, and rely on the unwavering market of 70 percent of Israeli Jews in the state who eat kosher food.

Ahead of the expected debate on the amendment to the public broadcasting law that is expected to take place on Sunday, IDI scholars resent a policy statement to legislators calling on them to stop this “unprofessional and shameful” legislative process and to enable the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation to go on air.

80% of Israelis are proud to be Israeli; 71% are optimistic about Israel’s future; and 38% see social gaps as a major challenge

In preparation for the Knesset vote on Tuesday on the fate of the Israel Broadcasting Corporation (IBC), leaders at the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) are calling on ministers to vote against the memorandum so as not to participate “in this campaign of revenge and inappropriate personal legislation.”

Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon’s Net Family Plan could give a boost to the haredi middle class, which has been developing over the last several years, by increasing the incentive for haredim to seek a higher education and for both parents to work.

In the coming weeks, members of the Council of Higher Education will vote on expanding gender-separated classrooms for ultra-Orthodox on academic campuses.

At joint Israel Democracy Institute-Makor Rishon conference, ministers also addressed chemical weapons tragedy in Syria.

Latest Peace Index: Trump’s White House invitation to Abbas not viewed as negative toward Israel; Israelis believe chances of Israeli-Syrian war low

Ministers say the current law, which separates public broadcasting from politics, is good and sound.

Latest Peace Index shows majority of Jewish Israelis think Netanyahu’s performance is not very good.

The percentage of ultra-Orthodox men who work stagnated in 2016 for the first time after a consistent upturn over the past several years, according to a new report by the Central Bureau of Statistics.

‘The bill sets an extremist and dim precedent, which casts a shadow of harsh limitations on freedom of expression’

MK Dr. Benny Begin: "Before finalizing the five-year plan for the Arab community, 40 to 50 meetings were held between government representatives and Arab Knesset members."

Dr. Shuki Friedman responds to the Supreme Court discussion Tuesday on the Chief Rabbinate’s monopoly on kosher certification.

In addition to questions about building in or annexing parts of Judea and Samaria, the Peace Index looked at aspects of the investigations of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, including trust in the police and in the attorney-general. In light of what has been revealed about conversations between Netanyahu and Yedioth Ahronoth publisher Arnon Mozes, the Peace Index looked at the public’s attitude toward Israeli media.

“The Kotel compromise presents a proper balance between the will and desire of Orthodox individuals - who are the majority of those praying at the Western Wall -- to continue praying in the main plaza as they always have, and the will and desire of other Jewish groups that want to pray in the vicinity of the Kotel according to their faith."

The Israel Democracy Institute (IDI), the Israel Innovation Institute (III) and Start-up Nation Central (SNC) said the government’s recent decision to approve implementing new and innovative interoperability strategies is an important step that could lead to a major breakthrough.

“The time has come to re-raise the issue of the status quo and write new legislation that will be accepted by the majority of Israelis," said Friedman.

IDI hosted an exclusive and high-level roundtable discussion on Facebook policies, Israel’s proposed Facebook Bill and freedom of expression. Simon Milner, Facebook policy director for the United Kingdom, Middle East and Africa, participated.

Today, the V-15 bill advanced to the Knesset, with a vote expected as early as later this week.

Dr. Shuki Friedman says the attempt to threaten a woman’s freedom after it was given to her three years ago by the local beit din in Safed is horrifying.

Latest Peace Index: despite UN Security Council Resolution 2334, majority of Jewish Israelis support continued building in the settlements; Israelis consider trial of Elor Azaria unfair; in 2017, all are optimistic 

IDI was quoted in nearly 500 articles connected to the Elor Azaria verdict, including interviews with Yohanan Plesner, Yedidia Stern, Mota Kremnitzer, Amichai Cohen, Tamar Hermann and Tehilla Shwartz Altshuler. We reached a potential 403 million individuals, through coverage in 28 countries and 42 states, plus Washington, D.C.

"The court must be allowed to pursue the legal process, without intimidation or attempts to undermine its independence."

The Regulation Law, if passed by Israel's government will effectively nullify all previous rulings on the issue, substantially weakening Israel's Supreme Court; the government's decision would be in blatant contradiction of international law as well as Israel's commitments; will provide a boost for BDS activists around the world and confirm international community's belief that Israel is annexing the territories.

Ahead of Wednesday’s (January 4) deliberations on the changes in the V-15 Bill, scholars from the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) sent a letter to members of a joint committee of the Knesset’s House and Law Committees calling on them to amend the bill significantly.

With the contentious Regulations Bill scheduled to be discussed at a special Knesset committee, the Israel Democracy Institute's 'Forum of Former Ministers' harshly criticized the proposal, stating that it "retroactively overturns a Supreme Court rulings, enables the stealing of land from its owners, violates Israeli law and accepted international legal norms and customs, and is an affront to the very concept of justice."

IDI weighed in today on the letter of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Miriam Naor, who reacted negatively to the Justice Ministry's announcement that it intends to change the procedure by which new judges to Israel's Supreme Court are appointed.

Latest Peace Index: A clear majority of Jewish Israelis believes Democratic presidential candidate will take election on Nov. 8

IDI and Tel Aviv University ask: What price should Israel pay for the release of Israelis held captive?

The Israel Democracy Institute’s Dr. Amir Fuchs came out against the statement by Minister Naftali Bennett that Elor Azaria should be immediately pardoned, even if convicted by the military court. Azaria shot a terrorist who came at soldiers with a knife, after the terrorist was disarmed. Fuchs said that Bennett’s proposal is unadvisable.

Israeli democracy is dealing with complicated challenges, but we are in a good place in comparison to other countries around the world

The project was done in collaboration with Kemach Institute and the JDC Haredi Employment Program

IDI Scholar Applauds Efforts to Expand From Where Israelis Can Cast Their Ballots

Ahead of the discussion and expected vote on the NGO Bill today by the Knesset Law and Constitution Committee, Israel Democracy Institute scholars came out against the bill's progression and the members of Knesset who plan on pushing it through. 

"The law in Israel has a double-standard and discriminates against parties with democratic systems that enable the wider public to take an active role in politics"

A plurality of the Jewish public views the addition of Yisrael Beiteinu into the government coalition over Zionist Union as a step in a positive direction, according to the latest Peace Index, released this week by the Israel Democracy Institute and Tel Aviv University.

The Israel Democracy Institute on Tuesday will bestow the
Outstanding Parliamentarian Award on two members of the current Knesset: Minister Moshe Gafni (United Torah Judaism) and MK Ayelet Nahmias-Verbin (Zionist Union).

"The Knesset does not have the judicial expertise, knowledge or necessary tools to determine facts. This bill proposes a fully-blown judicial process, including granting MKs the ability to punish other MKs for criminal acts," according to a statement by Prof. Mordechai Kremnitzer and Dr. Amir Fuchs.

An Israel Democracy Institute survey of 76 top Israeli businesspeople (C-suite) revealed that only 59 percent believe the Israeli business press is truly independent. The survey, shared during the final session of IDI's Eli Hurvitz Conference on Economy and Society also showed that a minority (38%) believe that the business press influences the Israeli economy.

srael's GDP is 40 percent lower than that of the U.S. and its level of productivity is 33% less than most OECD countries, according to a presentation by Dr. Karnit Flug, governor of the Bank of Israel.

The decision by Yisrael Beiteinu to concede on its demands related to issues of religion and state in order to join the coalition reflects a problematic reality.

Israel Democracy Institute Scholars Came Out Against the NGO Bill, which is being discussed today in the Knesset Law and Constitution Committee

Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked used her platform at IDI's Eli Hurvitz Conference on Economy and Society to define good governance.

IDI leaders say the process that led to Ya'alon’s resignation sends a negative message to all those committed to the values of Israel as a
Jewish and democratic state.

IDI President speaks out after heated conversation between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon goes public.

Public sees Israeli government's performance to be medium or low

Today marks the anniversary of the death of Rav Lichtenstein, a noted Orthodox rabbi, rosh yeshiva and authority in Jewish law. Rav Lichtenstein received the Israel Prize for Jewish Religious Literature for 2014.

Israel Democracy Institute scholars today expressed disappointment in the resignation of retired judge Hila Gerstel from her role as commissioner for prosecutorial oversight. 

IDI President Yohanan Plesner today came out against the decision to hold a rally on April 19 in support of the IDF soldier who shot dead a disarmed Palestinian attacker in Hebron last month.

IDI President Yohanan Plesner responds to a report composed today by an inter-ministerial team led by Defense Ministry Director-General Maj.-Gen. (Res.) Dan Harel suggesting that the government examine the possibility of offering discount prices on homes for members of the Haredi public who serve in the security forces.

Among those who signed are former ministers of the National Religious Party and Likud

Yair Sheleg, head of the Israel Democracy Institute's Religion and State program, today reacted to a document presented Sunday by rabbis from the nonprofit Beit Hillel urging greater acceptance of homosexuals within the Orthodox community.

Latest Peace Index shows Jewish Israelis agree Europe lacks the ability to combat terror, but favor collaborating with Turkey to fight terrorism. Plus, Israeli Jews now see Democratic frontrunner Clinton as better for Israel than Republican Trump.

Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) President Yohanan Plesner today responded to last week's Supreme Court decision that the state must recognize private Orthodox conversions, calling it inevitable, due to the continued failure of the state conversion institutes.

Yesterday, IDI held a roundtable discussion on how to appoint senior-level civil service professionals, under the direction of Eli Groner, director-general of the Prime Minister's office. At the forum, Groner discussed a dialogue that will take place Sunday in the Cabinet on the subject of establishing hiring search committees. 

As the Knesset winter session comes to a close, and a year into the 20th Knesset, the image of the Parliament and its members continues to suffer. On Tuesday, a new caucus will be launched with the purpose of proposing ways to improve the image of the Knesset and its members. 

Ahead of tomorrow's expected first reading of the MK Suspension Bill on the Knesset floor, Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) scholars sent an updated policy statement to members of Knesset, calling on them to vote against the bill.

Yesterday, a team of Israeli leaders met with President Reuven Rivlin at his residence to form a new caucus focused on restoring the public's faith in Israel's Parliament. The caucus, led by MK Elazar Stern, will work together with the Israel Democracy Institute to improve the Knesset's image.

"The Knesset is one of the most important institutions in our democracy. Improving its ability to function and its image in the eyes of the public is of extreme national importance," said IDI President Yohanan Plesner.

On March 20, the Ministerial Committee on Legislation will discuss legislation calling to lower the voting age in Israel from 18 to 17. Dr. Ofer Kenig, a researcher in IDI's Political Reform project, explains the the implications.

Ahead Sunday's vote in the Ministerial Committee on Legislation on whether or not the death penalty should be used against terrorists, two IDI scholars are calling on ministers to oppose the legislation.

Yair Sheleg says head of Israel's rabbinical court should not take public stances on controversial non-religious issues.

Ahead of today's meeting of the Ministerial Committee on Legislation, the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) called for supporting a bill that will shorten the length of time allotted to form a governmnet after an election. 

The proposed legislation was presented by Knesset Finance Committee head Moshe Gafni (United Torah Judaism) and would require that mikvehs be run only in accordance with the directives of the ultra-Orthodox Chief Rabbinate. 

IDI's Yohanan Plesner: "We need to look at this from a long-term perspective."

Peace Index: Israelis weigh in on which candidate is better for the Jewish State; Survey examines perceptions of Jerusalem as a divided city.

Policy statement: 'The current law already completely provides a way to deal with these kinds of issues, and there is no reason to change it.'

"The MK Suspension bill is an embarrassment to the Knesset."

IDI to Minister of Education Naftali Bennett: "Form a committee for appointing members of the Council of Higher Education, have the process overseen by the Attorney General and better coordinate with representatives from a variety of fields."

Former MKs say bill is unecessary.

International Advisory Council members from Baltimore, New York, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Toronto, England and Berlin discuss crisis of governance in the democratic world with Israeli government and economic leaders.

IDI researchers come out against MK suspension bill.

IDI event took place at the King David Hotel and included a keynote address by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The PM awarded IAC Chairman and former U.S. Secretary of State George Shultz with an award of appreciation for his service to Israel.

"We are witnessing a flood of initiatives that intend to bring about the politicization of and harm to the independence of the public sector." 

The majority of Israeli Jews (52.8%) say Israel applies the law equally toward Jews and Palestinians living in the West Bank, contrary to a statement made last month by U.S. Ambassador Dan Shapiro. However, 50.1% of respondents thought Israel would be justified in unequal application of the law toward Jews and Palestinians in the territories.

IDI Vice President Yedidia Stern responds to government's January 31, 2016 decision to allow egalitarian prayer at some parts of the Western Wall.

At roundtable event, government officials and researchers say time to move dialogue from quantity of Haredim in the workforce to the quality of their jobs.

The law is not similar to the American law. It discriminates and is likely to lead to lawsuits against Israel in the international criminal court.

Reform was written based on extensive research done by IDI.

Ahead of Sunday's vote on an 'Arab exclusion' bill by Yisrael Beiteinu Minister of Knesset Oded Forer, IDI's Prof. Mordechai Kremnitzer and Dr. Amir Fuchs sent a policy statement to the committee against the bill.

The Israel Democracy Institute's Dr. Shuki Friedman took part in a "Nation, Religion and State" coalition meeting  under the oversight of Knesset Members (MKs) Aliza Lavie and Elazar Stern (Yesh Atid). The topic: Finding alternatives to marrying through the Israeli Rabbinate.

The index, polled between Dec. 29 and 30, 2015 – before the Jan. 1 Tel Aviv terror attack and before the indictments against the Jewish suspects were handed down – focuses on the Israeli public’s positions on aspects of the efforts to prevent terror attacks and on issues in the background of these incidents, such as the current level of support for the two-states-for-two-peoples solution, the relative bond to the land among Jews and Palestinians, and the balance between Israel’s Jewish and democratic components.  

Policy statement: "The current law from 1959 does not jibe in the current media and political reality of the 21st century and causes discrimination between different forms of media and political forces."

As 2015 draws to a close, we are glad to present some of our biggest events of 2015 in photos.

Ahead of Monday's deliberations and expected vote on the final draft of the World Zionist Organization settlement division bill in the House Committee of the Knesset, a representative of the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) sent a sharply worded policy statement to the committee asking that it make fundamental changes to the bill. In the policy statement, Dr. Tehilla Shwartz-Altshuler, the head of IDI's Open Government project, said the bill is a dramatic failure in its lack of willingness to subject the WZO division to certain administrative laws.

Professor Mordechai Kremnitzer and Dr. Amir Fuchs of the Israel Democracy Institute continue to oppose an amendment to the Non-profit Organization Law (Duty of Disclosure for those Supported by Foreign State Entities) on grounds that it reduces freedom of association and expression, and is directed at restricting the activities of human rights organizations.

Other finding: image of present Knesset members is, in the vernacular, "lousy"

Following the advancement of an amendment to a Basic Law on the issue of removing the authority of the Supreme Court to intervene in decisions of the Central Elections Committee to cancel candidates or lists from participating in elections, the Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) sent out a sharply worded policy paper opposing this proposal. 

Regarding today's vote on the state budget: The Israel Democracy Institute calls for cancelling the law by which governments fall apart (vote of no confidence) if state budgets are not passed.  The current system negatively impacts the ability of members of Knesset to make sound decisions on behalf of the country, leads to corruption and members acting for personal and party gain.

Upholding human rights means police can only search a person when there is solid suspicion. This was the message that Israel Democracy Institute's Professor Mota Kremnitzer and Dr. Amir Fuchs delivered in a policy statement on Nov. 11.

The Israeli Democracy Institute (IDI) released the Israeli Democracy Index 2015 on Nov. 10, 2015. This year's public opinion poll, a project conducted by the Guttman Center for Surveys, found that Israeli's are more content than the news reports might make them appear.

This month's peace index survey focused on the ongoing wave of terror attacks and how they are affecting the feelings and behaviors of the Israeli public. Overall, the study found a Jewish public that is tense but not hysterical.

The Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) spoke out strongly against the graffiti painted on the Supreme Court building, discovered Nov. 4, and said it is a direct result of the slander that has been recently put out there against the court system by Israeli public activists. IDI stressed that it is the job of the Prime Minister and the parties to defend the rule of law. 

IDI responds to MK Aryeh Deri's resignation from the Economy Ministry, calls it, "a symptom of a governmental system that must undergo several structural changes in order to create long-term stability."

Policy statement explains ordinance harms rights of individuals suspected of security crimes.

Bill is as an attempt to destabilize the balance between Israel's democratic character and its Jewish character.

More than 200 people attended a Tuesday symposium on the assassination of former Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. At the event, former Mk Gideon Sa'ar said, "We are sick of words."

A sharply worded policy statement by Israel Democracy Institute experts was sent last week to members of the Ministerial Committee on Legislation against the proposed amendment to the party funding law that allow a committee to halt funding to parties that call for placing a boycott on the state of Israel or any area of Israel, including the West Bank.

Peace Index - Sept. 2015

Prof. Amichai Cohen responds to the decision by the judges of International Criminal Court in The Hague to reopen the investigation into the events of the Mavi Marmara. 

Upon the release of the findings of the international investigation of Operation Protective Edge: IDI warns that the intervention by international bodies in the investigation of the events of the Operation in Gaza undermines the basis of the international demand to establish investigative mechanisms and weakens the Israeli legal system.

Three-Quarters of Israeli Jews See No Contradiction Between Israel Being Jewish and Democratic

9% of Jewish Israelis Blame Israel, 1% of Arab Israelis Blame PA for Stalled Peace Talks

On average, since 1990 elections in Israel have been called every 2.8 years.

This Knesset stands to be the second shortest in Israeli history if elections are held in March or April 2015.

This month's Peace Index poll covers US-Israel relations, theoretical unilateral moves by the Israeli government, attitudes towards and pursuit of "price tag" perpetrators, and Israeli defense and socioeconomic challenges.

As investigations of mayors and other municipal leaders are on the rise in Israel, find out about IDI resources on the issue of corruption in Israel's local authorities.

Head of IDI's Political Reform project responds to reports that Prime Minister Netanyahu is planning to promote legislation that would automatically give the head of the largest Knesset party the right to form the government.

Two-Thirds of Israeli Jews Agree with Israeli Gov’t Decision to Halt Negotiations Following Hamas Reconciliation

Majority of Israeli Jews Disagree with US President Obama Blaming Both Sides for Lack of Progress in Talks

87% of Jewish Israelis Celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut as a Holiday, 68% of Arab Israelis Do Not

Majority of Israeli Jews Support Reducing Gov't Support for Institutions Which Mark Israeli Independence Day as the “Nakba”

87% of Israelis Think Chances Are Low for Framework Agreement in Coming Months

Majority of Israeli Jews Back Defense Minister’s Criticism of US Foreign Policy But Say It Should Not Have Been Made Public

An IDI survey reveals how the Israeli public perceives the role of the President.

Dr. Carmon, Founding President of IDI, to Step Down After 22 Years

IDI congratulates Mr. Avi Naor, member of our Board of Directors, and Mrs. Adina Bar- Shalom, who is involved in a variety of our projects, on being named the recipients of this year's Israel Prize for Lifetime Achievement—Special Contribution to State and Society.

IDI hosted the first ever AIPAC Lay Leadership Institute Class for a briefing on "Israeli Democracy in Action."

77% of Israeli Jews Believe Palestinians Must Recognize Israel as the Jewish State

Majority of Jewish Israelis Think Incitement Means Palestinians Do Not Want Peace

MK Eli Yishai, Adina Bar-Shalom, Rabbanit Hadassah Froman, Rabbi Yuval Cherlow to Debate Future of Religious Community

200 Israelis to Gather to Write Foundational Declaration Rare Assembly Aims to Produce Declaration of Human Dignity

Two-Thirds of Israelis Believe US is Committed to Israeli Security in Peace Talks Majority of Israelis Believe Netanyahu Gov't Can Withstand American Pressure if Proposal Bad for Israel

77% of Israelis Don’t Believe Agreement Will Prevent Iran Going Nuclear Only 27% of Israelis Believe Israel Could Find Alternative Ally as Faithful as US

86% of Israelis Believe US is Spying on Them, 73% Think Israel is Spying on Friendly Countries Despite View that Israel Faces Serious Security Risks, Majority of Israelis Believe Socioeconomic Challenges More Threatening

Majority of Israelis Believe US Projecting Weakness on Syria, Iran

2/3 of Israeli Jews Believe US President Obama Will Let Iran Go Nuclear

IDF Institution Most Trusted By Israeli Jews, Supreme Court by Israeli Arabs

Israeli Jews Against Right to Refuse to Serve in Territories or Evacuate Settlements, Israeli Arabs in Favor

Majority of Jewish, Arab Israelis Believe Two-State Solution Is Possible
2/3 of Israeli Jews Back Western Economic Aid to Egypt

Jewish Israelis Believe US Attack Would Strengthen US Middle East Status, Arab Israelis Believe It Would Diminish

Majority of Israeli Jews Oppose Withdrawal to '67 Borders with Land Swaps Even in Peace Deal with Demilitarized Palestinian State, End of Conflict

62% of Israeli Jews, 72% of Israeli Arabs Favor a Referendum for Peace Treaty Requiring Dismantling of Settlements

IDI Scholars Present Plan to Resolve Ultra-Orthodox Draft Crisis

Yedidia Stern: Peri Cmte Recommendations a dead letter, strategic mistake

More than 70% of Israelis Believe US Sec’y of State John Kerry Will Fail to Restart Peace Talks

Large Majority of Israelis Still in Favor of Palestinian-Israeli Negotiations

Majority of Arab Israelis Want Arab Parties in Coalition Government, Majority of Jewish Israelis Amenable

Three-Quarters of Arab Israelis Believe Arab Leadership Should Deal With Daily Problems, Not Palestinian Issue

Economics and Social Justice in Jewish Tradition

Leading Religious Zionist Personalities to Debate Choices Confronting Modern Orthodox Community

Is the Status of Female Soldiers in the Israeli Military At Risk?
A Joint IDI / INSS Roundtable Discussion

Israelis Overwhelmingly Back Strike on Syrian Convoy, Not Taking Sides in Syria
Israelis Divided Over Best Outcome for Israel in Syria

Conference to Examine Influences on Israeli Municipal Elections

Can Israel Strike a Better Balance Between National Security and Freedom of the Press?

Before Budget Submission, 34% of Israelis Approve of Finance Minister’s Job Performance

Large Majorities Back Open Skies Agreement, Cancellation of Dankner-Leumi Deal

Support Greatest Among Jewish Israelis Born in America & Europe, College Graduates, Secular

Number of Conversions Just 1/4 of Government Goal

Israeli Jews Believe Obama is Neutral, Balanced
Jewish Israelis Anticipate Softening of Positions, No Breakthroughs

On This Night We All Recline: A Discussion on Accessibility and Inclusion of People with Disabilities in the Family and Community

Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) Roundtable to Examine Distribution of Israel’s Public Funds to Non-Profit Organizations

73% of Israeli Jews Back Draft for Ultra-Orthodox, 23% of Israeli Arabs Support Military Service for Arabs

IDI Recognizes MKs Nitzan Horowitz and Orly Levy-Abekasis for Exceptional Legislative Activities

What Do the Results of the Knesset Elections Say about the Future of Arab Political Participation in Israel?

A Seminar with Simultaneous Translation into English

IDI Scholar Explains Israeli Coalition Building Process

Proposal for Regulating Lobbyist Activity to be Presented to Knesset Speaker Reuven Rivlin

New Party Democracy Index Poll Finds Labor, Likud, Meretz, Bayit Yehudi ‘Most Democratic’ Parties

Views of Israeli Voters on Personalities, Issues Revealed in Latest Peace Index

Can Religiously-Based Parties Endure in a Pluralistic Democracy?

IDI Roundtable to Examine Israeli Policy Towards Illegal Migrants, Refugees, Foreign Workers

IDI Vice President Professor Mordechai Kremnitzer Awarded European Research Council Grant for Research to Change Government Decision-Making

Israeli Public Welcomes Efforts of Egyptian President Morsi, Support of US President Obama

MKs, Activists Warn that Drop in Israeli Arab Voting Rate Weakens Legitimacy of Israel's Democratic System

Poll: Israeli Jews Back Romney, While Israeli Arabs Support Obama
Unprecedented Israeli Election Turnout Possible