Consider This from NPR

The Judicial Overhaul That Has Torn Israeli Society Apart

Jul 24, 2023

Dahlia Scheindlin, a political analyst from Tel Aviv, shares her insights on the recent law that weakens Israel's judiciary. She highlights concerns about democracy being threatened amid protests from citizens fearing unchecked government power. The discussion reveals a divided society grappling with the balance of power and the implications for civil rights. Scheindlin contrasts Israel's democratic framework with others, questioning the impact of this overhaul on governmental accountability and judicial independence.

09:54

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Dahlia Scheindlin

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Episode notes

Intro

2min

Concerns over Judicial Overhaul and Democracy in Israel

2min

Concerns Over Democratic Integrity in Israeli Governance

2min

Judicial Independence and Political Tensions in Israel

2min

The Debate on Judicial Reforms and Democracy in Israel

2min

On Monday, Israel's parliament voted into law a key measure to overhaul the country's judiciary. The measure prevents judges from striking down government decisions on the basis that they are "unreasonable."

The law strips Israel's Supreme Court of a key check on the power of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. This marks the first big move in a broader effort to weaken court oversight of senior officials. It comes after six months of protests from Israelis concerned that their government will have unchecked power. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is defending it, saying this law is the essence of democracy and will allow the elected government – his government – to carry out its agenda.

We hear from concerned protestors outside Israeli parliament — many citizens are afraid that their way of life is in danger.

Dahlia Scheindlin is a political analyst from Tel Aviv, she explains what this new Israeli law says about the state of democracy there.

In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment to help you make sense of what's going on in your community.

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