Freedom of association, freedom of expression, and freedom of protest are fundamental rights enshrined in Israeli and international law and necessary conditions for the existence of a functioning democracy. The state may not deny or restrict these rights without justification, even during wartime or emergency periods. In fact, these rights become more vital during such times, serving as tools for public criticism of government policy and the use of military force. Sweeping restrictions on...

The Associations Bill (Amendment – Donation from Foreign State Entity)” seeks to impose an 80% tax on most donations received by Israeli nonprofit organizations from foreign governments or official state institutions, and to divest the courts of their authority to hear petitions submitted by organizations whose primary funding comes from such entities. The proposed law is a major violation of fundamental rights, including freedom of association, freedom of speech, and the right to access the...

Restrictions on activists, human rights defenders, and on freedom of expression and protest further entrench the occupation and enable human rights violations in the Occupied Territories. Since the outbreak of the war, and through its second year, attempts to restrict space for protests against the occupation, government policy, and the continued war in the Gaza Strip have intensified. Demonstrations and protests Dozens of anti-war protests were denied permits by the police and local...