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.
Zazim Fights the Glorification of Racists
After a television station gave legitimacy to the actions of an arsonist who set fire to a Hand in Hand school, Zazim — Community Action mobilized to ensure that the regulatory body would hold the station accountable.
Election Season Brings Racist Rhetoric and Wins for Women in Israel
The just-concluded campaign for local governments in Israel saw right-wing parties deploy racist rhetoric. These desperate campaign tactics largely failed. Meanwhile, a high number of women were elected to office.
Meet David Myers: Optimist and Historian at the Helm
The distinguished scholar of Jewish history at UCLA brings a unique perspective to his new role as president of the board of the New Israel Fund.
Labor Party Stands Up For NIF
The Labor party withdrew its endorsement of a candidate for the Hod HaSharon local council election over her campaign’s attempt to delegitimize progressives.