Interview with the author: Rina Rosenberg

In a few sentences, how would you describe the situation of freedom of association in Israel?
In Israel today there are thousands of registered associations performing a wide range of human rights, social change and development and charitable functions. However, the Israeli Law of Associations – 1980 gives great power to the Registrar to intervene in the work, finances and decisions of the associations, which limits the individual’s right to exercise his/her full freedom of association.
 
What is the main positive point in the current situation? 
There is judicial review over the Registrar’s decisions which creates a checks and balances system, and sometimes deters the Registrar from implementing sweeping and arbitrary decisions.
 
The main negative point?
The Emergency (Defense) Regulations – 1945 are still valid in Israel and give power to the security authorities to close down any association without affording full due process rights (e.g., no full explanation is given and secret evidence is used).  
 
What are the main obstacles to the normal use of the freedom of association in Israel? 
There is a long delay in the registration process for associations, which in itself restricts the exercise of the right of association. During this process, those seeking to form an association often face many irrelevant questions from the Registrar. In this way, the Registrar exceeds his powers. 
 
What is your personal opinion about the future of freedom of association in Israel?
Given the fact that Israel still has Emergency Regulations and that the Israeli discourse of “fighting terror” as a justification for the use of sweeping governmental powers is increasing, the Registrar and the security authorities might use their power against Palestinian associations arbitrarily.

Rina Rosenberg is Co-Founder of Adalah and International Advocacy Director
Interview carried out on december 2007