On the 12th of August 2013 , the Minister of Justice asked Professor Ruth Gavison to formulate a proposal of a constitutional provision dealing with the character of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state in a manner that balances and integrates these values, both the Jewish and the democratic.
It appears that there is a wide consensus regarding the character of the state as Jewish and democratic, and this fact has even been given an anchoring in the 1992 basic laws, the proclaimed part of Israel’s constitution. However, there are substantial disagreements about the interpretation of the components of the definition of the state identity and the relations between them. These disagreements are reflected, among other things, in recent draft bills seeking to give further constitutional anchoring to components of the state's identity.
The investigation Prof. Gavison conducted looked into both substantive and institutional aspects of a constitutional anchoring of the identity of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state. In addition, an attempt was made to identify the attitudes within different segments in the Israeli society to these complex terms and the relations between them.
The investigation was built on previous similar efforts of civil society and the Knesset. It was based on examining the relevant literature, and on consultations with experts and organizations in Israel and abroad.
Within a few months, a proposal with explanatory notes concerning the recommended approach to the constitutional anchoring of the state identity was submitted to the minister, so it may aid public debate and the work of the Knesset.
Read the Recommendations Submitted to the Minister of Justice.
Complex processes in Israeli society have caused the "status quo" between observant and non-observant jews in the country to lose much of its force. The Covenant deals with many issues, including the Law of Return, citizenship, and conversion, marriage and divorce, the Sabbath, kashrut, burial, and the religious councils.
Read the Main Points and Principles of the Covenant.
Maintaining the vision of Israel as a Jewish, democratic and developed state, protective of the rights of all its citizens, is a huge challenge. Current trends within Israel and the world make the challenge even more daunting and highlight the need for a clear non-partisan voice capable of promoting this long-term goal; a voice which combines an exciting ideological vision, sober strategic analysis and focused “real world” responses.
The Metzilah Center for Zionist, Jewish, Liberal and Humanist Thought, has just that voice. Specifically, Metzilah publishes and disseminates high-quality research and policy papers, reframes fundamental issues and communicates a factual, historical and ideological groundwork for thinking and acting. As a result, Metzilah’s authoritative research and the resulting policy recommendations have provided a base for action to Israeli political leaders and other influential members of the public.
We believe that public discourse, policy research and education hold the key to integrating Zionism, Jewish values and human rights in the Jewish State, and that the these values are critical for the enduring welfare of Israel and the Jewish people worldwide.
Metzilah was founded by Prof. Gavison.
Read more about Metzilah
