What's happened
On March 27, 2025, Israel's Knesset passed a law enhancing political control over judicial appointments, raising concerns about judicial independence. The legislation allows elected officials to exert greater influence in selecting judges, prompting opposition parties to challenge its constitutionality amid ongoing protests against Prime Minister Netanyahu's government.
What's behind the headline?
Implications of the New Law
- Judicial Independence at Risk: Critics argue that the law undermines the independence of the judiciary by allowing politicians to appoint judges based on political affiliations rather than merit.
- Public Response: The legislation has reignited protests across Israel, reflecting widespread discontent with Netanyahu's government and its perceived authoritarian shift.
- Future of Governance: This move could lead to a judiciary that is less able to act as a check on government power, raising concerns about the erosion of democratic norms in Israel.
- Political Landscape: The law's passage may solidify Netanyahu's control but could also provoke further unrest and opposition mobilization, complicating his governance amid ongoing conflicts.
What the papers say
The Guardian reported that the law was passed in defiance of years of protests against Netanyahu's judicial reforms, with opposition parties warning it could lead to a dictatorship. Al Jazeera highlighted that the legislation allows for political considerations to dominate judicial appointments, which could compromise the judiciary's impartiality. The Times of Israel emphasized that the law effectively removes the judiciary's influence over Supreme Court appointments, raising alarms about the future of checks and balances in Israel's governance. The New Arab noted that the law's approval reflects Netanyahu's determination to push through his controversial agenda despite significant public opposition.
How we got here
The new law is part of a broader effort by Prime Minister Netanyahu's government to reform the judiciary, which has faced significant public opposition since early 2023. Previous attempts to alter judicial powers were met with mass protests, but the current legislation was pushed through amid a political standoff with the Supreme Court.
Go deeper
- What are the main points of the new law?
- How has the public reacted to these changes?
- What are the potential consequences for Israel's democracy?
Common question
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What is Israel's New Judicial Law and How Does It Affect Democracy?
On March 27, 2025, Israel's Knesset passed a controversial law that enhances political control over judicial appointments, raising significant concerns about judicial independence and the future of democracy in Israel. This legislation has sparked widespread protests and debates about its implications for the country's governance. Below, we explore key questions surrounding this new law and its potential impact.
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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The Supreme Court is the highest court in Israel. It has ultimate appellate jurisdiction over all other courts, and in some cases original jurisdiction.
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