Israel Not Yet a Dictatorship, But Moving Towards 'Democratorship'

The article introduces the concept of a 'democratorship,' a hybrid regime that retains the outward forms of democracy, such as elections and a parliament, while gradually eroding its substance. This term, also used internationally as 'democratorship' or 'démocrature,' describes a system where democratic institutions are preserved, but their core functions are undermined.

The author argues that true democracy extends beyond mere elections. The critical test lies in the period between elections, examining whether the government's power is limited, the judiciary is independent, watchdogs can operate freely, the civil service is professional, the media is free, minority rights are protected, and those in power recognize their limitations.

A 'democratorship' does not necessarily announce its arrival with overt actions like military takeovers but can operate through legislation, government decisions, appointments, and parliamentary votes. While each step may be justified individually, the cumulative effect of these actions can lead a regime away from democratic principles. Examples cited include weakening judicial independence, portraying watchdogs as enemies, prioritizing political loyalty over professional merit, viewing criticism as treason, and demanding state institutions align with the ruling power's will.

The article also touches upon internal party dynamics, suggesting that a lack of internal democracy, characterized by concentrated power in a single leader and the use of appointments to consolidate control, can lead to a more centralized political culture. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clear boundary between state leadership and the leader's family, as family members lack public accountability and oversight. Any influence they exert on decisions or appointments requires transparency and scrutiny.

While acknowledging that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was democratically elected and his government holds a parliamentary majority, the author stresses that this mandate is the beginning, not the end, of the democratic discussion. A public mandate grants the authority to govern but not a license to remove checks and balances on power. The piece concludes by warning that democracies can erode gradually through a series of seemingly small, legal, or necessary steps, leading to a situation where the institutions and elections remain, but the essence of democracy is lost.