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NIF Responds to Election Results

23 January 2013

The following statement was issued by New Israel Fund CEO Daniel Sokatch in reaction to the Israeli election results:

“Israelis went to the polls yesterday to elect a new parliament. Congratulations are due to all who were elected. The task of guiding Israel at this time will not be easy. The challenges they face — social, economic, and security — are immense.

“There is reason for hope. Widespread predictions of a shift to a harder right-wing coalition have been upset by a surge in support for parties at the political center. Moreover, Israelis elected a number of progressive champions whose track records show their determination to upholding equality and democracy. On election night, spokespersons from all major parties spoke of their determination to promote social justice.

“There is also reason for concern. The next Knesset will still include members who have supported legislation to constrict minority rights, to repress freedom of speech and conscience, or to trammel the independent judiciary and media. The New Israel Fund will remain vigilant in our efforts to protect these core democratic principles and to ensure that Israel remains a free society.

“In September, on Meet the Press, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke eloquently about his support for human rights, for the rights of women, for freedom of religion, for freedom of speech, and for tolerance. If Netanyahu is indeed charged with forming a new government, it’s vital that he puts those words into action and incorporates those values into the governing coalition.”

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