Human Rights and Democracy
A Just Society at Peace with Itself and Its Neighbors
NIF works to transform Israel’s founding ideal of complete equality for all into reality, and to protect the human rights of all people living under Israel’s control.
Over the past decade, respect for democracy and human rights has declined, both among government leaders and the Israeli public. These values are too frequently derided as illegitimate or are distorted to mean unbridled majority rule. The ultra-nationalist right continues to propose legislation and policies to curtail freedom of expression.
NIF’s program is designed to advance pro-democracy values and their expression in Israel’s public life, safeguard human and civil rights—particularly in the occupied territories—and strengthen public trust in and support for democratic rights and values.
Our program focuses first on preserving freedom of speech, a right that is the mainspring for other democratic values, by empowering activists with the information they need about their own rights and protecting those rights in court. Our second focus, safeguarding democratic institutions and processes, aims to counter legislative threats to democracy while developing mechanisms for public participation and transparency. And finally we invest in partners who remind Israelis of the human, social, and economic cost of the occupation, as well as those attempting to bring equity and social justice to all the residents of Jerusalem.
Upholding the Legacy of Vivian Silver, z”l
Two inspiring women, Attorney Quamar Mishirqi-Assad and Dr. Yofi Tirosh, were named this year’s recipients of the Vivian Silver Impact Award, honoring the beloved activist’s memory.
Helping Israelis from the Periphery Access Vital Resources
NIF grantee Tzedek Centers for Social Justice held a citizens’ rights fair in the southern Israeli town of Ofakim.
Providing Free Medical Care to Palestinians in the West Bank
Twice a week, Physicians for Human Rights – Israel brings doctors to villages across the West Bank to provide free medical care to those with limited access to health facilities.
Working in Solidarity with Palestinian Olive Farmers
NIF grantees coordinate groups of volunteers to help Palestinian farmers with the annual olive harvest in the face of increasing violence from settlers and the Israeli military.