EUJS Statement on the situation in Israel

Brussels, Belgium – 29 March 2023

We join with the protesters in Israel who are standing up for democracy, unity and for the safety and security of Israel.

As a result of the severe discord, division, and unrest within Israeli society, a temporary pause in legislation of the undemocratic judicial overhaul was achieved. However, this came in exchange for a new security force to be overseen by the far-right Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben Gvir. The very establishment of this new security body, alongside the fact that such a halt to the judicial overhaul proceedings is only temporary, represent two major causes for concern.

EUJS has joined in demonstrations calling for the upholding of Israeli democracy and we will continue to do so as long as the robustness of Israel’s democratic institutions come under threat. EUJS welcomes the opportunity for dialogue between governing and opposition parties in Israel and will continue to be vocal in supporting a solution that upholds the necessary independence of the judiciary in Israel.