Resolutions of the 33rd. Zionist Congress, Jerusalem,
December 1997 / Kislev 5758
A. Education and Zionist Hagshama among the Young Generation
1. Plan of Operation of the Department for Hagshama in
the WZO
Whereas, the Zionist General Council XXXII/6 Session resolved
that the World Zionist Organization will operate through two Authorities:
the Authority for Zionist Activity and the Authority for Hagshama among
the Young Generation; and
Whereas, the Zionist Executive is working towards realization
of this resolution through setting up a department for magshimim in the
World Zionist Organization; and
Whereas the Zionist Executive is aware of the significance of
defining hagshama activity, which is the continuation of the grand tradition
which formed the Zionist Movement in placing aliyah from all Diaspora
countries as the focus of Zionist activity;
Therefore submitted herein is a proposed resolution for the Zionist Congress
regarding the mission of the Department for Magshimim (hereinafter: Department)
and its operational modes within the framework of the World Zionist Organization.
It is therefore hereby resolved:
1 . Pursuant to the decision of the Zionist General Council XXXII/6
Session regarding special focus on activities of the World Zionist Organization
among the young generation, which constitutes the main potential for aliyah
to Israel and Zionist Hagshama, the activities of the Department will
focus on target populations of youth movements and students, returnees
from Zionist programs in Israel and young people, without discriminating
against the youth movements.
2. The goals of the Department are: bringing about a significant
rise in the rate of aliyah to Israel from the West; a change in
the agenda of the Diaspora Jewish communities and of Israeli society regarding
aliyah; and initiating activity among young people, with emphasis
on joint activity with aliyah-oriented organizations.
3. The Department will operate through the fostering, promoting,
directing and initiating of magshimim organizations, youth movements and
student organizations, and through cooperation with organizations involved
in these activities, including the Department for Zionist Activities in
the World Zionist Organization, the Aliyah Division and the Departments
of the Jewish Agency for Israel, including the Department of Aliyah and
Absorption, Department for Activities in Israel and the Department for
Jewish Zionist Education, the Jewish National Fund, Keren Hayesod, fund-raising
organizations, voluntary organizations and others.
4. The Department will work towards enhancing hagshama through
joint activity with the organizations and movements outside of Israel.
The Department will assist in funding hagshama operations within the classical
youth movements, the youth movements of the religious streams and communities,
among returnees from Zionist programs in Israel and among student organizations,
according to criteria set by the Zionist Executive.
5. The Department will participate in funding special and
innovative Hagshama activities, according to plans that will be approved
by the Zionist Executive.
6. The goals of the Department will be quantitatively defined
to allow measurement of the output of the Department.
2. Department for Hagshama
The Department for Hagshama will provide support for education towards
aliyah among young people. It will establish contact with graduates
of the youth movements, returnees from programs in Israel and students
on the campuses.
Fifty percent of the World Zionist Organization budget will be dedicated
for the financing of this activity.
3. Zionist Youth Movements and Hagshama Movements
The World Zionist Organization will work towards the renewal and development
of the momentum of hagshama within the Jewish communities and especially
among the young generation.
All the Zionist youth movements will constitute the foundation of the
hagshama movements.
The hagshama movements will submit a detailed annual report to each session
of the Zionist General Council.
The hagshama movements will select their own institutions.
4. Zionist Hagshama Youth Movements
1. The Zionist hagshama youth movements are the unique alternative
for Jewish experience among youth and an important and recognized component
for building new young leadership in the Jewish communities.
The Zionist Congress demands securing appropriate budgeting for all the
Zionist hagshama youth movements, and not to lower the budget level below
that which existed in the beginning of the 90’s. The Zionist Congress
views this as an integral part of every agreement on the structure of
the National Institutions.
2. The Zionist Federations will view mobilization of concrete
support of the youth movements as a primary role and task in the process
of their reorganization.
5. Zionist Federation Support of Youth Movements
Whereas, funding for the Zionist Youth Movements will in future
be the responsibility of the Jewish Agency Department for Education, the
WZO is the spiritual and ideological home of these movements;
Therefore, Congress calls upon the Zionist Federations to maintain
and if possible strengthen their support for and links with the Zionist
Youth Movements to help them maintain their unique ideological role.
6. Jewish-Zionist Education in the Diaspora
1. The Zionist Movement believes that Jewish-Zionist education
is the tool that can help Diaspora Jewry to preserve its Jewish identity
and its living contact with the State of Israel.
With its help, all Jewish children in Israel and in the Diaspora will
acquire a world of concepts, culture and language that will prevent separation
and alienation.
The term "Jewish Zionist education" refers to all the ideological and
spiritual-religious streams that exist in Jewish society, both in Israel
and in the Diaspora.
2. In recognition of the central role of education as a means
for the continued existence of the Jewish People, the Zionist Movement
shall act to provide a suitable budget allocation for all forms of education
- formal and informal, in community, academic and movement frameworks,
for children, youth and adults.
Sensitive use must be made of scientific innovations - the educational
and social sciences, communications and computers, in order to reach the
greatest possible number of teachers and students and involve them in
Jewish-Zionist education.
3. The Zionist Congress has decided on a program for the
rehabilitation of Jewish-Zionist education in Israel and the Diaspora,
in order to mobilize the resources of the Jewish People, both material
and human, and allow all Jewish children in Israel and the Diaspora to
be acquainted with the treasures of the Jewish culture in all its variety.
Educators and intellectuals active in all the ideological and spiritual-religious
streams will be incorporated in the framework of this project. They
and their students will visit Israel and their Israeli counterparts will
visit the Jewish centers in the Diaspora.
4. Joint seminars and study frameworks will be held, in which
the different traditions customary in Judaism through the centuries will
find expression, and where the treasures of culture, morality and wisdom
formulated through generations will be studied.
The Government of Israel, as the representative of the Jewish People
in Israel, will be called upon to participate in the project and to assist
financially, as well as in the delineating of contents, training of educators
and organization.
7. Zionist Educational Programs
Whereas, the vision and goals of the Declaration of Independence
of the State of Israel (May 14, 1948) represent the spiritual and moral
ideals which are the foundation of the State of Israel and the Zionist
Movement; and
Whereas, the main ideological part of the Declaration of Independence
includes the following words: "... The State of Israel will be
open for Jewish immigration and for the Ingathering of the Exiles;
it will foster the development of the country for the benefit of all its
inhabitants; it will be based on freedom, justice and peace as envisaged
by the prophets of Israel; it will ensure complete equality of social
and political rights to all its inhabitants irrespective of religion,
race or sex; it will guarantee freedom of religion, conscience,
language, education and culture; it will safeguard the Holy Places
of all religions; and it will be faithful to the principles of the
Charter of the United Nations" (excerpted from the Declaration of
Independence);
Be it therefore resolved that the Zionist Congress instruct the
Zionist Executive to plan and execute policy and programs which are in
the spirit of the Declaration of Independence in honour of the 50th anniversary
of the State of Israel. This should be the responsibility of this
Executive during its entire term of office until the next Congress.
The Zionist Executive will report on progress in the realization of these
programs each year at the Zionist General Council session, and also to
the next Zionist Congress.
a. The WZO and all of its functional arms, departments and
organizations connected to it in Israel and in the Diaspora will plan
and conduct wide-spread educational programs, projects and campaigns to
promote the vision and ideals of the Zionist Movement as they are expressed
in the Declaration of Independence and particularly in the section quoted
above.
These ideas will be one of the main subjects of all educational programs
of the WZO and its institutions.
b. The WZO and all its institutions will produce and
distribute popular posters and booklets in Hebrew, English, Spanish, Russian
and other languages to promote the vision and ideas in the Declaration
of Independence.
8. Strengthening Jewish-Zionist Education
Whereas the vision and aims of the Declaration of Independence
of the State of Israel from 14/5/48 represent the spiritual and moral
ideals which are the foundation of the State of Israel and the Zionist
Movement; and
Whereas the main ideological part of the Declaration of Independence
includes the following: "the State of Israel will be open for
Jewish immigration and for the Ingathering of the Exiles; it will
foster the development of the country for the benefit of all its inhabitants;
it will be based on freedom, justice and peace as envisaged by the prophets
of Israel; it will ensure complete equality of social and political
rights to all its inhabitants irrespective of religion, race or sex;
it will guarantee freedom of religion, conscience, language, education
and culture; it will safeguard the Holy Places of all religions;
and it will be faithful to the principles of the Charter of the United
Nations" (excerpted from the Declaration of Independence).
The Zionist Congress resolves to instruct its representatives in the
Jewish Agency to work towards strengthening Jewish Zionist education along
the lines of the principles of the Declaration of Independence, as well
as Jewish values and education towards hagshama - aliyah to Israel.
B. Promotion of Aliyah from the West
9. Immigration and Absorption
1. The Zionist Movement views immigration and absorption
as topics of top national priority and calls on the State of Israel and
the Jewish Agency to grant immigration and absorption the necessary resources
for encouraging immigration and for provision of the best possible conditions
for positive absorption in order to continue the immigration impetus.
2. A serious reform is needed in the area of immigration and absorption:
planning of varied employment sources, a primary requirement for successful
absorption; simplification of financial investment procedures in Israel,
and encouragement of economic initiatives.
Good absorption is not dependent only on work, housing and economic ability,
but also requires a supportive approach - in cultural, spiritual and educational
terms on the part of the absorbing society. Awareness of absorption should
be encouraged among the veteran Israelis, negative images that have been
attached to immigrants should be uprooted, and efforts should be made
to strengthen social ties between veteran and new Israelis.
3. Attention should be focused on immigration programs for
young people and students, who constitute the largest reservoir of potential
immigrants and who, in the future, are likely to be the attracting force
for the aliyah of their relatives. Since long-term programs in Israel
are the most efficient tool for encouraging aliyah among young Jews from
the West, it is resolved that the WZO will put the marketing of long-term
programs at the top of its list of priorities.
4. The Jewish People stands at present before changes in
the immigration map. Only a few distressed areas remain in the world where
special efforts need to be made to bring the remaining Jews to Israel.
There should be the same conditions for absorption for immigrants from
all distressed countries.
Parallel to the immigration from the CIS, new methods and tools should
be developed, with the assistance of olim associations, for immigration
promotion and development of specific messages for each and every community.
Activity in the smaller and more out of the way communities must be expanded,
because in those places, assimilation is rampant.
5. The direct absorption system should be preserved and means
and methods of absorption have to be varied to suit different immigrant
populations, with concern for their specific needs.
6 . The Zionist Movement calls on the Government of
Israel to work towards finding conversion solutions for thousands of olim
who made aliyah in the last few years. The debate surrounding the
question of conversion damages aliyah from the West. The Zionist
Movement calls on the Government of Israel to find and adopt a solution
acceptable to all the streams in Judaism.
7. The Zionist Congress recommends transferring activities
among Israelis living abroad and returning residents from the Government
to the World Zionist Organization and its emissaries.
Every possible path should be used to encourage the return of Israelis
living abroad, particularly among the second generation, which offers
a huge potential for immigration. The Zionist Congress recommends
that all the procedures and bureaucratic regulations connected with aliyah
and absorption be re-examined, with the intent of making them easier.
This process should be carried out in the near future.
8. The issue of drop-outs among the immigrants, especially those
from the western countries, who are leaving Israel, has not received sufficient
attention from the absorption authorities. Ways must be examined and resources
allocated for programs to prevent new immigrants from leaving Israel.
9. Jews living in Germany who had emigrated from the
CIS and who decide to make aliyah should be given immigrant rights for
5 years.
10. Immigration from the West and Absorption
1. Aliyah and klitah framework respecting cultural diversity.
The diverse religious, cultural and educational values, motivations, and
inspirations which bring olim to Israel must be respected by all that
facilitate aliyah and klitah. "Derech Eretz" of all religious streams
should be encouraged and programs should be created to emphasize the positive
contributions of olim in enriching the social-cultural mosaic forming
in Israel.
2. Aliyah in stages may be encouraged. Western
aliyah doesn’t always happen "at once", but could be promoted through
opportunities provided to young people to "try life" in Israel.
More Israeli shlichim should be sent to the Diaspora to motivate youth
to participate in such programs:
* Short term summer programs before college
* Participation in student exchange programs
* Development of awareness of educational exchanges in Israel among
both students and parents
* Enrollment in Israeli high school, college, university and
yeshiva programs
3. Small business assistance
Many olim from the West wish to make a living in Israel through enterprises
and developing small businesses, especially in service industries and
hi-tech. The bureaucratic requirements should be made easier so
that the existing assistance programs will fulfill their purpose and the
bureaucracy will not adversely affect the ability to start such businesses
and olim enterprises in Israel.
4. Aliyah of older people should be encouraged.
An additional factor which would encourage western aliyah is to enable
extended families to remain in close proximity. It is recommended
to encourage multiple generations to come on aliyah together. New
programs should be established to aid seniors in making aliyah.
11. Aid for Immigration from South Africa
Whereas, South African Jewry is on the move due to changed internal
political and financial circumstances, and also recognizing the fact that
only 20% of those Jews who are leaving South Africa are making aliyah;
This Congress resolves that JAFI and the State of Israel regard
South African Jewry as a special priority, and that extraordinary efforts
be made so as to not lose the historic opportunity of assisting more South
African Jews to come and live in Israel.
12. Promoting Immigration from Latin America
The Zionist Congress recognizes that the Jewish Communities in Latin
America are in a state of distress.
In light of this emergency situation the Congress resolves to continue
to implement innovative programs for promoting aliyah.
In addition to the aliyah shlichim from Israel, assistance will be provided
to local aliyah activists.
C. Dissemination of the Hebrew Language
13. Hebrew Instruction and Use in WZO and JAFI
Whereas in the 1968 Jerusalem Program of the WZO, one of the aims
of Zionism is the preservation of the identity of the Jewish people through
Hebrew education; and
Whereas the Hebrew language is one of the great unifying forces
of the Jewish people; and
Whereas Hebrew is the medium through which the spiritual heritage
of the Jewish people has been transmitted from generation to generation;
Therefore be it resolved that:
1. The Zionist Congress endorses those bodies which are devoted
to the dissemination of the Hebrew language and recommends the expansion
and intensification of their activity.
2. The Zionist Congress urges the WZO and the JAFI to promote
the study of and speaking of Hebrew by both children and adults through
all of its departments and divisions.
3. The Zionist Congress urges the WZO and JAFI to assist, support
and cooperate with other organizations which teach and promote the use
of Hebrew.
4. The Zionist Congress calls for the Hebrew language being the
official language of the Zionist movement.
14. Advancing Hebrew Instruction
The Zionist Congress views the Hebrew language as a basic component for
building national-Jewish identity.
The Zionist Congress views the lack of knowledge of the Hebrew language
as a national cultural danger and calls for the intensification of efforts
to assist as large a number of Jews as possible to acquire the basics
of the language.
The Zionist Congress calls for an increase of the efforts to teach correct
Hebrew, a living and spoken language, in schools, synagogues and all possible
frameworks by using the most advanced and successful pedagogic methods
(including the Internet) and the allocation of human and financial resources
for this work.
The Zionist Congress calls as well for the declaration of a day each
year to celebrate the Hebrew language throughout the Jewish world and
to fill it with appropriate content.
15. Brit Ivrit Olamit
1. The Zionist Congress views Brit Ivrit Olamit (World Hebrew
Union) as an important factor in strengthening and disseminating the Hebrew
language and Hebrew literature and calls for strengthening the clubs of
the World Hebrew Union around the world within all organizations and especially
the youth movements.
The Zionist Congress notes the exemplary activity of the World Hebrew
Union in enhancing the status of the Hebrew language in universities around
the world.
2. The Zionist Congress charges the Departments of Organization
and Jewish Zionist Education with assisting the voluntary activity of
the World Hebrew Union.
16. Hebrew and Long-Term Programs
Whereas long-term programs are a most effective tool for acquiring
proficiency in the Hebrew language and in equipping madrichim to increase
the use and teaching of Hebrew in camps and movement activity;
Be it resolved to dramatically increase the number of participants
on long-term programs, and to enhance the quality and quantity of Hebrew
instruction in those programs.
D. Settlement
17. Settlement Policy
On the 100th anniversary of the first Zionist Congress, and fifty years
after the establishment of the State of Israel, the Zionist Congress expresses
its deep appreciation to the settlement enterprise, for its part in determining
the borders of Israel, for the revival of the land and the populating
of barren areas. The development and population of outlying areas,
deserts and sparsely populated regions are a national mission of primary
importance. The Congress strongly requests that the Government,
the Jewish Agency, the Zionist Organization and the Jewish National Fund
make a combined effort to reach this goal in both rural and urban settlements.
A. The Rural Areas
* In view of the accelerated growth expected in the population
of Israel during the coming twenty years, the Zionist Congress stresses
the high priority that it places on the preservation of the rural areas
of the State of Israel and the rural character of the settlements and
calls for suitable legislation to guarantee this. This legislation
will also strengthen and boost settlement in the peripheral areas, which
are underpopulated and offer few job opportunities.
* The Jewish Agency will act to guarantee this objective with the
means at its disposal.
B. Guarantee of the Farmers’ Rights to the Land
The farmers’ rights to the land will be anchored in long-term lease contracts.
At the same time, the Zionist Congress sees a need for safeguarding national
lands through a Zionist institution of appropriate standing.
C. Functions of the Jewish Agency and the World Zionist Organization
with regard to Settlements.
* The Zionist Congress sees the directing of the efforts of
the Jewish Agency, the Settlement Division and the Jewish National Fund
to the sparsely populated peripheral regions as essential, in the future
as well, in order to create infrastructures and employment opportunities
that will enable an influx of residents.
* In the framework of those efforts, existing settlements
will be expanded and their populations will be increased, and in those
areas where the settlement map justifies such action, new settlements
will be established.
* Within the framework of the new structure, the Israel Department
will be allocated budget for enabling these activities, including all
aspects of planning of rural regions.
* Past commitments will be honored in their entirety.
* The Jewish Agency will use the lease contracts (the tripartite
agreements) only in order to safeguard national lands. The Agency will
not use those contracts for the collection of fees, taxes, etc. from the
settlers or for any additional purpose.
* Returns on the loan funds operated by the Israel Department
will be at the disposal of the department, and this will enable their
operation on a multi-year basis as an essential tool for development of
the peripheral regions.
* In order to create variety and develop employment opportunities
in the peripheral regions the Jewish Agency will strive to strengthen
urban-rural relations, to establish employment and industrial areas and
structures in them, and to develop different jobs, according to each region’s
special character.
D. Cooperation with the JNF
The Zionist Congress views as necessary the establishment of cooperation
between the Jewish Agency and the JNF in order to centralize efforts and
to coordinate activities for development and population of the peripheral
regions.
E. Absorption in the Rural Areas
* Small settlements, where involvement of the residents is
greater than in the city, have advantages to offer in immigrant absorption.
* Expansion of settlements, including expansions in the center
of the country, can help the cause of immigrant absorption.
* The Zionist Congress sees the absorption of new immigrants
in the rural areas as a matter of necessity, and it calls upon the State
to allow expansions designated for immigrants, and sees the Jewish Agency
as a factor obligated to spur on such absorption.
* The Zionist Congress calls on the rural settlements and
the settlement movements to create the possibilities for the absorption
of immigrants.
F. Partnership with the Jewish People
* The Zionist Congress determines that the partnership between
the Jews of Israel and the Jews in the Diaspora is essential and necessary.
* This partnership, based on the centrality of the State
of Israel, requires a relationship based on equality and also the continued
involvement of Diaspora Jewry and its contribution to the infrastructures
designated for the absorption of native Israelis and immigrants in the
sparsely populated peripheral regions, in order to make successful absorption
possible.
* The "Partnership 2000" project which encourages the development
of mutual relations and offers direct and continuous contact is most essential.
The Jewish Agency must act on a regular basis to increase the budget for
this project, and to assist in increasing the variety of types of contact
and the number of persons involved.
* Continuing personal ties are a condition for sharing and
involvement.
G. Joint Responsibility – Associations of a Voluntary Nature
Despite the far-reaching organizational changes, the growing desire for
realization of the rights of the individual, and changing values, the
Zionist Congress views associations of a voluntary nature, whose members
are aware of the need and value of a framework based on joint responsibility
- both social and economic – as having utmost importance.
18. Partnership 2000
The Zionist Congress calls on the Jewish People and its leadership to
enhance the direct economic-cultural partnership, especially with peripheral
areas that have made a decisive contribution to the creation and consolidation
of the economic and cultural foundation of the State of Israel.
19. Government Solutions for Settlement Problems
The Zionist Congress calls on the Government of Israel to reset its priorities
in order to carry out a national policy of affirmative priority which
would advance solutions to the distress of development towns and settlement.
20. Long-term Programs and Settlement
Whereas many long-term programs place participants as volunteers
in communities and settlements around Israel, where interaction between
participants and Israelis in their homes, schools and work-place is intense
and deeply meaningful for both sides;
Be it resolved that the WZO work to increase participation in
long-term programs and particularly those including components of volunteering
in communities and settlements.
E. Zionist Activity in Israeli Society
21. Pluralism
Based on Resolution No. 93 of the 32nd Zionist Congress which states:
"Religious Pluralism - Whereas religious and secular pluralism in Israel
is a concern to Zionism in the Diaspora, the Congress calls on all the
political parties in Israel to recognize that:
A. In a democratic society there will be diversity of forms of
Jewish expression.
B. Secular and religious Jews of all streams have equal democratic
rights to their own beliefs and ways of life.
C. Any attempt by any body to force religion or prevent it, is
anti-democratic and may lead to disrespect for Judaism."
Out of concern and public criticism in Israel and the Diaspora regarding
the situation which has developed over a period of time in the Jewish
world.
Out of deep concern for the unity of the Jewish People, the Zionist Congress
calls on the leadership of the Jewish religious streams in Israel and
the Diaspora to cooperate with the Government of Israel in order to ensure
the success of the Ne’eman committee in its efforts to solve the problematic
issues on the Jewish people’s agenda, among them the issues in the area
of personal status and possibilities of operating in Israel.
If this cooperation does not succeed, the Zionist Congress calls on the
Executive and the institutions of the movement to take all necessary steps
in order to continue to call on the Government of Israel:
1. Not to allow any change in the Law of Return which is one of
the foundations of the Jewish people’s identification with the State of
Israel throughout all the Jewish communities of the world.
2. To avoid amendments to laws, or new religious legislation unless
it is passed through wide consensus, taking into consideration the support
of all the streams of the Jewish people in Israel and the Diaspora.
3. To hold an open and frank dialogue with all the streams of the
Jewish people on the challenges, opportunities and dangers facing the
Jewish people and fortifying its spiritual strength.
The Zionist Congress denounces the recent acts of violence and "chilul
haKodesh", among them the torching of a kindergarten, and against individuals
and religious and educational institutions in Israel.
The Congress calls on all public figures connected to the issue to avoid
insulting and degrading public declarations calling for any ostracizing
of streams of the Jewish people because of a different interpretation
of Judaism and its sources.
The Zionist movement is a pluralistic Jewish movement placing primary
importance on maintaining the unity of the Jewish people which is diversified
and enriched by a multiplicity of opinions and the views of its members.
The Zionist movement respects, in theory and in practice, the multiplicity
of interpretations of Judaism and its traditions in the spirit of pluralism
within Judaism. The uniqueness of the Zionist movement is that it
is the only voluntary, democratic movement within the Jewish people.
The movement maintains cooperation among all the streams of the Jewish
people based on equality and mutual respect.
The Zionist Congress instructs the Zionist Executive to call on the Government
of Israel to adopt and implement the spirit of this resolution as an addendum
to Resolution 94 of the 32nd Zionist Congress entitled: "Equal Rights
for All the Streams of Judaism". The Zionist movement will continue
to strive for and work towards creating mutual respect among all the streams
and ideologies within Judaism according to these values.
If the efforts of the Ne’eman committee are unsuccessful, the Congress
calls on the Government, according to the proposal of Labour-Meretz, The
New Faction, Mercaz and others, to avoid passing the conversion law.
The Congress noted the stance of Mizrachi, Likud, Tsomet, Moledet and
others who are opposed to this position for religious and conscientious
reasons.
22. Agenda of the Jewish Agency
The representatives of the Zionist Movement and the Jewish Agency will
work towards setting an agenda for the Jewish Agency as follows:
Agenda of the Jewish Agency
The Jewish Agency will prepare itself for a new agenda in this time of
decreasing aliyah from countries of distress. The Jewish Agency
will operate among needy populations. Fund-raising will be carried
out, emphasizing the goal of assisting the weak sectors within Israel.
Activities of the Jewish Agency will be done according to the principles
of mutual assistance, social justice and charity.
Strengthening the link between the communities and Israeli society
Strengthening the link between the Diaspora Jewish communities and renewal
neighborhoods (or neighborhoods requiring renewal) in the center of the
country. The Jewish Agency will concentrate on these neighborhoods
in addition to its activity in the Negev and Galilee. The activities
will focus on the community and educational levels and on projects for
promoting social and public leadership for involvement in the community.
Partnership 2000 will be expanded and deepened.
The Jewish Agency will try to forge a link between the Diaspora Jewish
communities and regions and neighborhoods according to background files
prepared in advance. The Jewish Agency will set internal priorities
in forging the link, with equal distribution among the various regions
of Israel.
The Jewish Agency will deal with regional development. Regional
development will include Jewish Agency involvement with every settlement
in the region.
Projects fostered by the Jewish Agency
The Jewish Agency will initiate, develop, foster and participate in projects
which recognize the principles of tolerance, democracy, acceptance of
the other person, the bringing together of different cultures and unique
traditional values.
The Jewish Agency will be a partner in activities which deepen the moral
and Jewish identity of Israeli society in all its variety.
The Jewish Agency recognizes the importance of the youth movements.
The Jewish Agency will support the activity of the Zionist youth movements
and student movements in educating towards principles of solidarity.
The Jewish Agency will support "Oded" groups going to development towns
and deprived neighbourhoods.
Employment
The Jewish Agency will support ties between wealthy Jews and Diaspora
Jewish communities for setting up projects and creating jobs in areas
of high unemployment.
The Jewish Agency will encourage regular meetings and long-term study
programs between Jewish professionals abroad and their counterparts in
Israel. The Jewish Agency will try to bring Jewish professionals
to Israel for periods of stay.
Connection with Contributors
The Jewish Agency will publish the project files and report on progress
made and on the extent of achievement of the goals of the contribution.
The Jewish Agency will create a clear link between the contributor and
the project funded by his/her contribution. The Jewish Agency will
try to create identification between the contributor and the project.
Relations between Youth
The Jewish Agency will operate intensely among the young generation.
The Jewish Agency will encourage projects that involve connecting Israeli
youth with Diaspora Jewish youth. The Jewish Agency will advance
projects of direct contact via the Internet and initiate a project of
correspondence between youth.
The Jewish Agency will mediate between Diaspora Jewish youth and Israeli
youth in the framework of a hosting project during summers.
23. Zionist Council in Israel
1. The Zionist Council is the Israeli arm of the World Zionist
Organization and is responsible for public and informational educational
activity in Israel.
2. The Zionist Council in Israel will gather around itself
all the factors which have the broad Zionist common denominator, as an
Israel-wide, non-party framework and as a factor which urges and stimulates
Jewish Zionist action and identity among all the levels of the population,
especially the young generation.
3. The Zionist Council in Israel is an independent public
movement dealing with unique Zionist activity. The Zionist Congress
resolves to strengthen the status of the Zionist Council in Israel and
place at its disposal the appropriate resources for expanding and deepening
this activity.
4. The Zionist Congress calls on the Zionist Council in Israel
to widen the network of contacts and cooperation between Israeli society
and the Jewish communities around the world. This, by way of twinning
cities in Israel and Jewish communities in the Diaspora, exchanges of
youth delegations, cultural ties and hosting community representatives
in Israel through cooperation with the Department of Education.
5. The Zionist Council in Israel will work towards bringing
all the segments of the population closer together for the strengthening
of the Zionist camp in Israel.
6. The Zionist Congress notes with great satisfaction the
activity of the Druse Zionist Council in strengthening understanding and
the covenant of life between Jews and Druse in Israel and calls for continuing
and encouraging this movement.
24. The Zionist Youth Council
1. The Zionist Congress welcomes with great satisfaction
the decision of the Ministry of Education to recognize the Zionist Youth
Council as a youth organization in the State of Israel.
2. The Zionist Congress views the activity of the Zionist
Council in Israel among the youth in Israel as a most important challenge
and calls for expanding the branches of the Zionist Youth Council and
strengthening the ties with the youth movements, high schools, students
councils and youth councils.
3. The Zionist Congress calls on the Department of Education
to strengthen the ties with the Zionist Youth Council in developing ties
with Jewish youth in the Diaspora.
4. The Zionist Congress notes with great satisfaction the
expansion of activity of the Zionist Academy active among youth throughout
Israel. The Zionist Congress charges the World Zionist Organization
with strengthening the activity of the Academy and the scope of seminars
and study days it holds, and placing at the disposal of the Zionist Youth
Council the tools needed for this.
F. Zionist Activity Among the Jewish Communities
25. Plan of Operation of the Department for Zionist Activities
in the WZO
Whereas, the Zionist General Council XXXII/6 Session resolved
that the World Zionist Organization will operate through two Authorities:
the Authority for Zionist Activity and the Authority for Hagshama among
the Young Generation; and
Whereas, the Zionist Executive is working towards realization
of this resolution through setting up a Department for Zionist Activities
in the World Zionist Organization; and
Whereas, the Zionist Executive is aware of the significance of
defining the activity of the Department for Zionist Activities, which
will serve as the flag-bearer of the Zionist Organization currently undergoing
change; and
Whereas, the Zionist Executive is aware of the need to re-define
the agenda of the Zionist Organization and adapt it to the challenges
Zionism faces in its present spheres of activity;
Therefore submitted herein is a proposed resolution to the Zionist
Congress regarding the mission of the Department of Zionist Activities
(hereinafter: the Department), and its operational modes in the
framework of the World Zionist Organization.
It is therefore hereby resolved:
1. The major goal of the Zionist Organization will continue
to be aliyah to Israel and promotion of Zionist Hagshama. Achieving
this goal will be the responsibility of the Department for Hagshama of
the World Zionist Organization. The Department for Zionist Activities
will work towards realizing, through programs and activities, the other
goals of the Zionist Organization as detailed herein:
* The World Zionist Organization will be a major world-wide movement
in the
Jewish world, striving to place Israel and the life
in the state of the Jewish People, at
the focus of the experience of all Jews around the
world.
* The World Zionist Organization, through territorial Zionist Federations,
will initiate and encourage cooperation between international organizations
and various territorial organizations, in order to achieve the goals it
has set for itself.
* The World Zionist Organization will concentrate on a number of
tasks in order to concentrate a critical mass in a number of operations
in which there is significance and the possibility of bringing about real
change.
* Recognizing that the challenge of aliyah, which was the focus
of activity of classical Zionism, still stands before us, the World Zionist
Organization will strive for fostering and building a model society in
Israel, and will work towards turning Israel into a magnet for Jews of
the Diaspora, concentrating on building areas of activity, promoting factors
within Israeli society, and encouraging sectors of the young population
in Israel which can assist in strengthening the awareness and connection
between Israeli society and Jews of the Diaspora.
* One of the major values at the center of activity of the Zionist
Movement will be "tikkun olam". With the stabilization of the national
home for the Jews in Eretz Israel, and upon the 50th anniversary of its
existence, the World Zionist Organization will focus activity on strengthening
the community and encouraging a moral contribution with significance for
humanity as a whole, based on the universal values of Judaism.
* The World Zionist Organization will fulfil a central role in
taking responsibility for Jewish continuity both in Israel and in the
Diaspora. Out of concern for the Jewish continuity of Jews both
in Israel and the Diaspora, and recognizing the complexity of the threat
of assimilation and alienation from the heritage and values of the Jewish
People, the World Zionist Organization will devote efforts towards strengthening
Jewish and Zionist identity, and towards ensuring the survival and prosperity
of the Jewish People.
Additional opinion
1. The Zionist Movement, wishing to see all the Jews of the
Diaspora living securely in the State of Israel, the state of the entire
Jewish People, and recognizing that in the foreseeable future Jewish centers
in the Diaspora will continue to exist alongside the center of the Jewish
People in Israel, will uphold the dialogue between Israel and the Diaspora
on the basis of the centrality of Israel and not on the basis of "negation
of the Diaspora".
2. The Zionist Executive, together with the heads of Zionist Federations,
will define the specific activities which will be the responsibility of
the Department within two months from the 33rd Zionist Congress, and will
define the appropriate structure for carrying out the said activities,
recognizing the local conditions and needs varying from country to country.
3. Further to the decision of the Zionist General Council
XXXII/6 Session regarding focus on the activities of the World Zionist
Organization among the young generation, the Department’s activities will
focus on the young generation in Israel and the Diaspora.
4. The Department will co-operate with territorial Zionist
Federations to involve all the factors, organizations and individuals,
including the State of Israel, the Jewish Agency for Israel, Jewish National
Fund, Keren Hayesod and fund-raising organizations, which can assist in
realizing the goals which it is responsible to attain.
5. The aims of the Department will be quantitatively defined in
order to allow measurement of the output of the Department.
26. Involvement of Zionists in Fund-Raising
The Zionist Congress calls on all members of the World Zionist Organization
to continue to contribute to the united appeals, Keren Kayemet LeYisrael
and Keren Hayesod and to increase involvement in the activity of these
organizations.
27. Activity of Zionist Federations in Communities
Congress recognizes the importance of increasing enthusiasm for Zionist
activity in the Diaspora and calls on the Zionist Federations around the
world to establish programs to strengthen identification with and support
for Israel. Furthermore, Zionist Federations should seek to expand
their membership and affiliations and seek to achieve the support of the
Jewish communities in attaining the Zionist aim.
28. Jewish Peoplehood through Communication Technologies
The Congress acknowledges the extraordinary increase of Jewish Information
Society activities taking place through the Internet. The number and quality
of participation in such Jewish activities has increased exponentially
in recent years. Hundreds of thousands of Jews world-wide are active participants
of e-mail based discussion groups, Web based forums and chats and visit
Web-based services. Important educational, political, social, observance-related,
scholarship and family centered activities in the Jewish world are taking
place through the Jewish Internet.
The 33rd Congress approves the experiment carried out through the First
Virtual Zionist Congress as part of the preparations and follow up to
the present Congress. This experiment pinpoints the viability of broad
participation of Jewish people worldwide in processes of consultation
and decision-making related to contemporary Jewish issues.
The 33rd Zionist Congress hereby instructs the institutions of the
World Zionist Organization:
1. To report to the 34th Zionist Congress on steps taken toward the implementation
of the concept of "Jewish Peoplehood through Communication Technologies".
2. To carry out world-wide experiments including networked discussions,
featuring
networked public opinion surveys and decision making experiments, through
GroupWare tools, which may enable a wide and open Jewish participation
in debates and decisions on current issues in the contemporary Jewish
agenda.
29. Long-Term Programs
Whereas long-term youth and college programs in Israel (for a
period longer than 6 months) are the most effective tool for creating
Zionist activists for the Diaspora, be it resolved that the growth in
long-term programs and the effective mobilization of long-term program
graduates be high priorities in the WZO.
30. Israeli POW’s and MIA’s
a. The World Zionist Congress monitors with deep concern the fate
of IDF Prisoners of War, and Missing in Action.
b. The Congress calls upon the Israeli government to continue to
do its utmost to enable the speedy return of Israel’s POW’s and MIA’s
to the State of Israel.
c. The Congress calls up its members the world over to place the
plight of Israeli POW’s and MIA’s on the world agenda.
31. Jonathan Pollard
a. The World Zionist Congress monitors with deep concern the fate
of Jonathan Pollard.
b. The Congress calls upon the Israeli government to do its utmost
to enable Jonathan Pollard to make aliyah.
c. The Congress calls upon the President of the United States of
America to commute for humanitarian reasons the sentence of Jonathan Pollard
to time served.
d. The Congress calls upon its members the world over to place
the plight of Jonathan Pollard on the world agenda.
G. Funding Sources for the Zionist Movement
32. The Independence of the Zionist Movement
The World Zionist Organization in its new structure will maintain the
independence of the Zionist Movement and determine ways and means of implementing
this task, including ways and means of independent financing.
33. Funding Sources for the Zionist Movement
Whereas the World Zionist Organization is in a process of reorganization;
and
Whereas the Zionist Movement has goals and purposes which must
be accomplished; and
Whereas the World Zionist Organization believes it would be wrong,
inefficient and counterproductive to set up a fundraising campaign competing
with existing campaigns,
We hereby call on the Jewish Agency for Israel and/or the Board of Governors
of the Jewish Agency for Israel to continue to finance the World Zionist
Organization or be responsible to find substitute financing for World
Zionist Organization operations and that the World Zionist Organization
is committed to:
1. Preserving all properties registered in the name of the World
Zionist Organization;
2. Collecting participation fees from programs carried out by the
World Zionist Organization;
3. Examining the possibility of payment of membership fees on the part
of
those joining the Zionist Movement in Israel and the Diaspora.
H. Zionist Federations – Role, Structure and Representation
34. Role of Zionist Federations
1. Whereas, the World Zionist Organization provides
an important link between the Jews of Israel and the Jews of the Diaspora;
and
Whereas the Zionist Federations around the world are the representatives
of the World Zionist Organization; and
Whereas local Zionist Federations provide the link between Israel
and local Jewish communities;
Be it resolved that all activities in Diaspora countries on behalf
of all (both) of the departments of the WZO will be conducted through
the local Zionist Federations and that these Federations will be sufficiently
funded so as to carry out these functions with the excellence they demand.
2. The Zionist Congress recognizes the vital and unique role
of the local Zionist Federations in providing a united, co-ordinated and
representative voice of the Zionist Movement in communities around the
world. In those countries which have no Zionist Federation, but where
Zionist movements or groups exist, the World Zionist Organization will
work towards the establishment of Zionist Federations.
3. The Zionist Congress calls upon Zionist Federations to
include development of Dor Hemshech, young leadership and youth movements
in the framework of their activities.
35. Widening the Ranks of the WZO
Whereas, it has been decided that the World Zionist Organization
will continue to function in its the present framework; and
Whereas, the organization framework of the Zionist Movement -
the World Zionist Organization - is a world-wide framework;
Be it therefore resolved to renew, develop, strengthen and enlarge
the Zionist frameworks in all the various countries.
It is also hereby resolved to take action within the general Jewish
population in order to widen the ranks of the World Zionist Organization
through recruitment of new members.
It is also hereby resolved to have registration and membership
drives for the Zionist Movement.
36. Zionist Organization in the CIS
Whereas the Jewish communities of CIS represent the second largest
community of the Diaspora; and
Whereas Jewry of FSU contributed during the last few decades more
than three quarters of the aliyah and still continues to do so; and
In light of the rapid process of self-organization in Jewish communities
of major countries of CIS which started in 1991 with the adoption of Jewish
programs; and
Bearing in mind the outstanding participation of the Jews of the former
Russian Empire in the formation of Zionism and the State of Israel and
crucial contribution of the Soviet Jewry movement to modern Zionism; and
In light of the recommendation of the Zionist Supreme Court from December
11, 1997 to determine the manner of affiliation of FSU Jewry to the World
Zionist Movement no later than within a year following the 33rd Zionist
Congress;
Be it resolved that the Zionist Congress recognizes the urgent
need to integrate the Jewish and Zionist institutions of the CIS within
the World Zionist Organization and authorizes the Zionist Executive to
take forthwith the following measures:
1. To secure the continuation of the CIS representation at the
Zionist General Council from December 26, 1997 onwards; this representation
should be organized by the "Va’ad" of the CIS in consultation with the
Zionist Executive, so that the personal composition will be approved by
both structures, with rights equal to representatives of other Diaspora
Jewish communities;
2. To develop together with the "Va’ad" of the CIS programs of
support and development of Zionist and Magbit institutions in the CIS,
and to appoint a committee, together with representatives of the Jewish
and Zionist organizations in the CIS, with the aim of solving the problem
of integration and proper representation of the organizations of CIS within
the framework of the World Zionist Organization by the time of the Zionist
General Council XXXII/2 session in the summer of 1998. The said
committee would be established no later than February 1998.
37. Struggle against Antisemitism
The Zionist Congress calls upon the Zionist institutions abroad to join
in the efforts to fights again antisemitic manifestations and against
Holocaust denial. This activity plays an important role in strengthening
Jewish identity and solidarity with the State of Israel and the Jewish
People.
A . Institutions of the Zionist Movement –
Representation within them and Method of Election
38. Department for Zionist Activities
The establishment of the new Department for Zionist Activities is a golden
opportunity for Zionist renewal throughout the world.
Be it resolved that the new Department for Zionist Activities
will create and work according to an agenda which is relevant to Diaspora
Jewry.
The Department will encourage the study of Israel through visits and
local educational programs specially designed to bring Israeli culture
and the Hebrew language to as many people as possible of all ages.
The Department will also bring Diaspora and Israeli communities together
to foster understanding between them and help to bridge the widening gap
between the Jews of Israel and Jews around the world.
The new Department will devote resources to develop Zionist leadership
for youth, students and adults so that they find their place in the leadership
of their communities in Israel and the Diaspora.
39. Maintaining Israel-Diaspora Partnership
The Zionist Congress calls on all the partners in the National Institutions
and especially the Jewish Agency, to maintain, even in the era of ideological
changes, the joint organized political activity between Israel and the
Diaspora and not to exchange this for philanthropic support alone.
40. Maintaining the Status of the WZO
Whereas, the World Zionist Organization will function as an independent
body; and
Whereas, the Zionist Movement has goals and purposes which are
held in common with the State of Israel; and
Whereas, the Zionist Movement, in accordance with the covenant
with the Government of Israel, has various tasks, not all of which can
be carried out in the current situation;
Be it therefore resolved to take action to continue the special
status of the World Zionist Organization and to guarantee the agreements
and the status of the WZO and renew the activity of the joint committee
of the Government of Israel and the WZO.
41. Representation of Women
It is hereby resolved to instruct the Zionist Executive to set
up a committee to examine the representation of women in senior positions
in all the National Institutions.
It is hereby resolved to instruct the Chairman of the Zionist
Executive to appoint advisors on the status of women – one from Israel
and one from the Diaspora.
42. Examining Changes in WZO Constitution
Whereas, the World Zionist Organization will continue to function
as an independent Zionist movement;
Be it resolved to instruct the Zionist Executive and the Presidium
of the Zionist General Council to set up a committee which will examine
changes in the Constitution of the World Zionist Organization. The committee
will report to the Zionist General Council on its activities within two
years.
J. Legislative Matters
43. Participation of Youth in 33rd Zionist Congress
Notwithstanding the content of Articles 17, 19, 21, 24 and 26
of the Constitution of the WZO and Section 7 of the Standing Orders of
the Congress, and subject to this resolution, the members of the Zionist
Youth Congress who were invited to participate in the 33rd Zionist Congress
are considered delegates with voting rights at the Resolutions Plenum
of the 33rd Zionist Congress in all matters pertaining to Hagshama and
the Youth Movements, unless any faction should register opposition by
advance notice to the President of the Zionist Congress that the youth
delegates will not participate in voting for a particular resolution or
any part thereof. This resolution is in effect for this Congress
only.
44. Authorizing the Zionist General Council to Amend the Constitution
In accordance with Articles 15 and 64 of the Constitution of the World
Zionist Organization, the Zionist Congress authorizes the Zionist General
Council to deliberate and decide on amendments to the Constitution of
the World Zionist Organization.
45. Authorizing the Zionist General Council regarding Budget
and Finance
The Zionist Congress delegates its authority regarding matters of Budget
and Finance to the Zionist General Council and gives it authority to decide
regarding all matters of budget and finance, both directly and through
authorizing the Permanent Committee for Budget and Finance.
46 . Transferring the draft resolutions which were not discussed to
the Zionist General Council
In accordance with Section 16 (d) of the Standing Orders of the Zionist
Congress, it is resolved to transfer the draft resolutions which were
not finalized in the committees of the Zionist Congress, as material for
discussion at the next Zionist General Council session.
11th . Elections
47. Chairman of the Zionist Executive
In accordance with Articles 14 (e) and 41 of the Constitution, the Zionist
Congress elects Avraham Burg to the position of Chairman of the Zionist
Executive for the period between 24 Kislev 5758 (21 December 1997) until
22 Tevet 5760 (31 December 1999) and Salai Meridor from the period of
23 Tevet 5760 (1 January 2000) until the 34th Zionist Congress.
48. Zionist Executive
In accordance with Articles 14 (e) and 41 (1) of the Constitution, the
Zionist Congress elects the following people as members of the Executive:
Aryeh Azoulai
Tommy Baer
Haim Chessler
Roy Clements
Avi Dickstein
Avraham Duvdevani
Paula Edelstein
Eli Eyal
Haim Hayet
Itamar Herman
Amos Hermon
Rabbi Asher Hirsch
Gideon Holtzer
Haim Klein
Rabbi Joel Meyers
Michal Modai
Marlene Post
Reuven Shalom
Eliezer Sheffer
Kalman Sultanik
Rabbi Joseph Wernik
Yehezkel Zakai
Dr. David Zomer
In addition, another three members whose names have not been submitted.
49. Treasurer of the WZO
In accordance with Articles 14(e) and Article 41 Section 1 (b) of the
Constitution, the Zionist Congress authorizes the Zionist General Council
to elect the Treasurer of the World Zionist Organization. In order
to remove all doubt, the Zionist General Council is authorized to conduct
a referendum among its members on this matter, in accordance with Section
18 (9) of the Standing Orders of the Zionist General Council.
50 . Extended Zionist Executive
In accordance with Article 15 and Article 41 Section 2 of the Constitution,
the Zionist Congress authorizes the Zionist General Council to elect members
of the Extended Executive. In order to remove all doubt, the Zionist
General Council is authorized to conduct a referendum among its members
on this matter, in accordance with Section 18 (9) of the Standing Orders
of the Zionist General Council.
51. The Judicial Bodies
a) In accordance with Article 54 of the Constitution, the Zionist
Congress appoints Judge Dr. Moshe Bejski as President of the Zionist Supreme
Court.
b) In accordance with Article 54A of the Constitution,
the Congress appoints as members of the Committee for the Nomination
of Judges of the Zionist Supreme Court the following people: Dr. David
Libai, Adv. Rami Michaeli, Moshe Nissim, MK Avraham Poraz, with the recommendation
that female judges be appointed as well.
c) In accordance with Article 53 of the Constitution, the
Zionist Congress elects Adv. Haim Kimchi as Attorney of the World Zionist
Organization.
d) In accordance with Article 54 of the Constitution, the
Zionist Congress elects as Deputy Attorneys the following: Adv.
Nissim Abouloff, Adv. Elitzur Divon, Adv. Ofra Freedman, Adv. Meira Segev
52. Honorary Fellows
In accordance with Article 32, Section 3 (h) of the Constitution, the
Zionist Congress elects the following Honorary Fellows:
Leah Barkin
Yisrael Ben Nun
Rachel Duvdevani
Josef Gothart
Raya Jaglom
Yosef Kleiman
Ivriya Levine
Arno Lustiger
Rivka Rabinowitz
Avraham Schenker
Prof. Ezra Spicehandler
Bernice Tannenbaum
Yaakov Vana
53. Comptroller of the World Zionist Organization
In accordance with Articles 14 (d) and 60 of the Constitution, the Zionist
Congress re-elects Ehud Haviv as Comptroller of the World Zionist Organization.
54. The Zionist General Council
In accordance with Article 14 (e) and Article 32 (f) of the Constitution,
the Zionist Congress elects the following members of the Zionist General
Council and deputy members:
Members of World Labour Zionist Movement-Meretz
Members of the Zionist
General Council |