The Idiosyncrasy of Israeli Philanthropy-Government Interaction

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to evaluate two different systems, in the relations between the government and philanthropy. While the one is controlling in regulation, the other is establishing a committee that will standardize philanthropy activities in Israel. I use the Israeli government actions vs. philanthropic activities as a case study to demonstrate my assumptions and conclusions. As far as the government-philanthropy relationship is concerned, Israel is a unique case. In this paper, I will expand on the ramifications of the political system and explain how it influences the government and philanthropy relationship. I will explain the political system in Israel. I will define and describe the military elite and its power in the government and in the civil society. I will then sort out the efforts of the government to preserve its power against the opposition, and further explain the implications on the operation of the foundations in Israel. In summary, I will suggest a possible platform for foundations to actively and positively invest their resources under the current political landscape.