institute for zionist strategies

How the Israeli right conspired to shut down ‘lefty’ department at BGU

The crackdown on Ben-Gurion University’s Department of Politics and Government may seem unprecedented, but a closer look reveals an ongoing campaign to challenge academic freedom in the university and beyond. By B.N.* While the attacks on the Department of Politics and Government of Ben-Gurion University are being viewed by many as an unprecedented measure, infringements…

By +972 Magazine October 24, 2012

Im Tirzu supporters trying to shout down a leftist demonstration (photo: Yossi Gurvitz)

Leaked BGU report: Part of broader assault on academic freedom

Read excerpts from the report obtained by +972 Magazine. The leaked report of a committee appointed by Israel’s Council for Higher Education (CHE), assessing Ben Gurion University’s Department of Politics and Government, is an anomaly compared to other reports, if not an outright, government-sponsored politicized mission against an academic department that has no precedent. I repeat…

By Dahlia Scheindlin November 26, 2011

Panel recommends closing BGU politics dept. for “political bias”

Topping off a lengthy, politically-motivated assault on the Department of Politics and Government at Ben Gurion University, a new study now reportedly recommends closing the department altogether. According to Yediot Ahronot, an international committee established by Israel’s Council for Higher Education has pointed out a series of professional, academic weaknesses of the department, examining the…

By Dahlia Scheindlin November 23, 2011

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Civics schoolbook slashed for being too civic

Haaretz reports today that the Education Ministry has begun re-writing the book used in civics studies in high schools. The book, promisingly titled “Being citizens in Israel – a jewish and democratic state” (read in full) was released in the late 1990’s, and certainly needs updating- the civic situation in Israel got considerably worse; but…

By Dimi Reider August 29, 2010