Special Issue - "Neoliberalism and Populism in Israel: An Integrated Perspective"

The latest issue of Qadaya Israeliya (Israeli Affairs) delves into the intertwined dynamics of neoliberalism and populism in Israel, showcasing how these seemingly opposing forces are seamlessly integrated to shape the nation's political landscape.

At first glance, neoliberalism and populism may appear to be conflicting ideologies, with one prioritizing economic freedom and market logic, and the other rallying around the people while expressing disdain for liberal political values. Neoliberalism commodifies everything, even aspects traditionally believed to be outside the market's purview, such as health, education, public transportation, and prisons. On the other hand, populism claims to represent the true interests of the people, often asserting that liberal elites have betrayed the nation by aligning with aliens, minorities, and immigrants. Populist movements advocate for policies centered on alienation of immigrants, border closure, and increased control over economic movement.

This issue of Qadaya Israeliya argues that the apparent contradiction between these ideologies is illusory. In Israel, under the leadership of Netanyahu, a clear example emerges of how neoliberal and populist policies can be seamlessly combined and integrated. The enactment of the Nation-State Law, which emphasizes a religious and national populist discourse, occurred simultaneously with some of the most extreme economic policies in the country. The populist narrative serves as a unifying force for the Jewish majority, while the accompanying economic policies exacerbate societal divisions, widen economic disparities, and intensify poverty rates.

Populism, in this context, becomes the moral adhesive that binds a fragmented society together in the face of growing economic disparities and divisive discourse. The issue explores the direct and indirect relationships between neoliberalism and populism in Israel, featuring articles by Dani Filc, Arie Krampf, and reviews by Nabih Bashir and Ali Haydar. Additionally, the publication covers other critical issues within the current Israeli political landscape.

Readers are invited to engage with this exploration of how neoliberal and populist forces converge in Israel, offering insights into the complex interplay between economic policies and political rhetoric.