Israel has been no exception to a world-wide increase of anti-democratic populism and authoritarianism in the last decade. The rise of populist politicians has been mirrored by attacks on the justice system; the delegitimization of civil society organizations and the normalization of incitement towards Palestinians and people on the left. A network of populist NGOs established to nourish and advance these illiberal trends contribute to the deepening of the occupation and increased support for it among the Israeli public. This is achieved by silencing any criticism of Israeli policies. 

As part of this project, Ofek will carefully track the ways in which this evolving anti-democratic populism and authoritarianism impacts Israeli politics and society and work to curb these trends.