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Decision Time: Democracy and Society Conference, in Partnership with Yedioth Ahronoth

On Wednesday, September 2, senior figures from Israel’s public, legal, political, and academic spheres will gather for “Decision Time: Democracy and Society,” a conference taking place in Hebrew hosted by the Yedioth Ahronoth Group in partnership with the Israel Democracy Institute. The conference will examine the biggest challenges facing the state of Israel and explore solutions that will shape the future of Israeli democracy.

Israel is at a moment of decision. Nearly three years after October 7, and amid upheaval in the country’s political and social landscape, the question of Israeli democracy is no longer theoretical, but practical: How can Israel safeguard its state institutions? How can public trust be restored? And what solutions can ensure a strong and functioning democracy for decades to come?

On Wednesday, September 2, the Yedioth Ahronoth Group and the Israel Democracy Institute will hold the “Decision Time: Democracy and Society” conference, moderated by Sharon Kidon. The conference will bring together elected officials from across Israel's political spectrum, government ministers, former senior members of the judiciary, heads of law enforcement agencies, academics, researchers from the Israel Democracy Institute, senior civil servants, economists, and representatives of civil society for a day of discussions, interviews, and panels addressing the key issues shaping Israel’s future.

Among the topics on the agenda:

The Constitutional Crisis: Is It Time for New Rules of the Game?

The relationship between the branches of government, the limits on the power of the government and the courts, and the ongoing efforts to build a consensus on a constitution. Can Israel’s Declaration of Independence serve as the basis for a new constitutional framework?

Ultra-Orthodox Conscription: Can the Divide Be Bridged?

The issue of military conscription as a test of the relationship between the ultra-Orthodox community and Israeli society, as well as of the principle of equality in sharing the burden of IDF service. Is it possible to develop a model that meets Israel’s security needs while accommodating the characteristics of Israel's ultra-Orthodox society?

The Ultra-Orthodox Community and the Economy: Turning a Challenge into an Opportunity

Integrating the ultra-Orthodox community into the workforce, the high-tech sector, and the Israeli economy. How can the state turn demographic change into an engine of economic growth?

How Can We Make Our Streets Safe Again?

Crime, violence, and declining public trust in law enforcement. What is needed to strengthen the police, improve enforcement, and restore citizens’ sense of personal security?

Leadership at a Moment of Decision

A conversation about leadership, public responsibility, and the ability to make decisions and build consensus at a time of polarization and a highly charged election campaign.

The Yedioth Ahronoth Group and Israel Democracy Institute’s “Decision Time: Democracy and Society” conference, moderated by Sharon Kidon, will take place on Wednesday, September 2.

The conference will be broadcast live on the Ynet website and app, with extensive coverage on Ynet and in Yedioth Ahronoth. This conference will take place in Hebrew, with English language quotes and updates on IDI's X account and via email. To request to join IDI's press distribution list, please contact Tova Cohen: [email protected].