Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President and Rosh Yeshiva | Yeshiva University
Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President and Rosh Yeshiva | Yeshiva University
The Association for Israel Studies, in collaboration with the European Association for Israel Studies, held its annual conference at Charles University in Prague from July 1 to 3, 2024. The event gathered scholars from Israel, North America, and Europe to discuss the latest research in Israel Studies and assess the political, strategic, cultural, and social situation of Israel post-October 7.
Dr. Rogachevsky, Associate Director of the Straus Center, presented a paper titled "Herut Party Debate on Rights (1948-49)." His research delves into the debates among leading figures of the Herut Party following the founding of the state. These discussions focused on defining political ideas and principles as they transitioned from an underground movement to a legitimate political party. Key figures included Eliyahu Meridor, Yuli Margolin, Yochanan Bader, and future Prime Minister Menachem Begin.
Rogachevsky highlighted substantive disagreements among these leaders regarding the state's role in the economy, religion-state relations, and combining positive and negative rights politically. Despite differences, Herut maintained a liberal national vision advocating for a strong sovereign state that protects equal rights for all citizens. The party's rejection of tyranny was partly driven by fears of Mapai (Labor Party) hegemony but also reflected their commitment to liberal democratic principles.
On religion-state relations, Rogachevsky emphasized Yuli Margolin's preamble to Herut's "Bill of Rights," which states: "The first principle of the bill of rights derives from the first chapter of Genesis: the creation of the human being in the image and likeness of God. The historical foundation of the bill of rights is Hebrew culture and European democracy." This text reflects Herut's aspiration to harmonize Jewish ethical principles with modern democratic practices.
Security measures at the conference were stringent due to global security concerns. Attendees were advised against wearing conference badges outside university premises or publicizing their presence in Prague. These precautions underscored heightened security awareness given recent events affecting Jewish communities worldwide.
The Association for Israel Studies and its European counterpart continue their work despite challenging times for Israel.
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