Structure of Israeli Governance

Israel operates as a parliamentary democracy, which is characterized by a single-house legislature known as the Knesset, composed of 120 members elected through a party list proportional representation system. Voters in Israel do not select individual representatives; instead, they vote for parties, whose candidates are determined by party leaders rather than through primaries. This structure raises concerns about accountability and representation, as members of the Knesset (MKs) are often beholden to party leaders rather than their constituents. The historical decision to maintain 120 MKs, reflecting ancient councils, contrasts sharply with the growing population and modern governance needs.