Right to exist
In 2018, the State of Israel celebrated its 70th anniversary. Although it is still the only fully democratic country in the Middle East, Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state is not only still questioned, but this sentiment has proliferated, with the rise of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement. This is due to incitement among the large Islamic Diaspora where Muslims greatly outnumber Jewish populations in most Western countries, and also due to a rising movement on college and university campuses around the world, particularly in the United States and in Europe.
Israel’s operations along the Gaza Strip to protect its border towns from waves of terror and incitement has created a new surge of anti-Israel hatred providing new excuses for its de-legitimization.
Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state in peace, security, stability and prosperity is not a sine-qua non among many of the world’s population especially, but not only, among developing nations.
For Jews around the world, the State of Israel is a special place. Israel’s well-being is central to Jewish life.
Jews around the world are proud of Israel’s achievements over the last 70 years and support those who continue to build and defend Israel.
Like every other legitimate state, Israel has a right to defend itself against any acts of aggression that threaten its citizens.
The global Jewish community must work together to activate the prodigious wealth of Jewish talent in the field of public relations to counter adverse images of Israel and its people, in the media, on the internet, and by articulate spokespersons who attack it. We also see to engage youth, particularly students, to collaborate in a positive way to try to change the discourse about Israel on campus, and show case not only its achievement as a democratic nation, and a leader in innovation, but also underscore its indisputable right to exist as a Jewish state.
The World Jewish Congress is committed to supporting Israel and defending it against delegitmization in every sphere.
Israel’s international relations
Israel is not treated like any other state. It does not have diplomatic relations with a number of states and is often singled out for criticism by international organisations such as the UN, which imposes double standards across its bodies and agencies.
Governments must apply the same standards to Israel when judging its actions compared with those of other countries.
Israel should not be singled out for criticism by countries which do not themselves adhere to the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
Israel needs to be treated fairly in international organizations, especially in United Nations bodies such as the Human Rights Council.
All countries should recognize Israel's right to exist, and be open to developing diplomatic ties with Israel.
Peace Process
A negotiated settlement between Israel and the Palestinians based on a two-state solution is the only legitimate, just and viable way to provide for a lasting peace.
The nascent Palestinian state should respect the principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. A Palestinian state can only be founded if it respects Israel’s right to exist in security.
Initiatives that help to enable the Palestinians to advance economically and socially should also be supported as a means of stabilising the peace process.
