Israeli Youth Prefer Respectful Political Discourse, Poll Suggests
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
A new poll indicates that a majority of young Israeli voters prefer respectful political discourse, with many saying they would avoid divisive candidates. The "HaDibbur" initiative, which commissioned the survey, urges politicians to consider these findings as election campaigns intensify. Historically, cross-party collaboration on legislation has declined significantly in recent Knessets, but the article suggests that improving discourse is a necessary first step toward reducing polarization.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- 69% of first-time Israeli voters would avoid candidates with divisive and disrespectful communication styles.
- 81% of young Israeli voters prefer candidates who speak respectfully over those using divisive language.
- 78% of young Israelis feel that disrespectful speech from leaders diminishes their respect for them.
- The "HaDibbur" initiative, founded by bereaved families, promotes clean and constructive political discourse.
- Cross-party legislative cooperation in the Knesset has significantly decreased in recent years.
- Improving political discourse is seen as a crucial first step to reducing polarization in Israel.
As election day approaches, political rhetoric in Israel is intensifying, with many politicians assuming that aggressive language against rivals will yield more votes. However, new data suggests this strategy may be counterproductive, particularly among young voters.
A survey conducted by "HaDibbur" (The Speech), an initiative founded by bereaved families to promote clean and constructive discourse, found that 69% of first-time voters would avoid candidates with divisive and disrespectful communication styles. Furthermore, 81% stated a preference for candidates who speak respectfully over those using divisive language, and 78% said disrespectful speech from leaders diminishes their respect for them.
Sarit Sussman, a leader of "HaDibbur" whose son was killed in Gaza, urged party leaders and campaign managers to heed these findings. "Young people in Israel, and Israeli citizens in general, desire respectful discourse," Sussman stated. "Great challenges lie ahead, and we can overcome them only with determination and a commitment to building, which requires cooperation through words."
The article also highlights past instances of positive cross-party interactions. In previous election cycles, moderators would ask politicians to offer a brief, positive remark about their opponents. Examples include Orit Strock praising Merav Michaeli, Merav Michaeli commending Gila Gamliel, Shalom Danino complimenting Tehila Friedman, and Rabbi Eli Ben-Dahan acknowledging Rachel Azaria's work.
While these positive exchanges were often followed by heated debate, they conveyed a message of civility. The "Religious Zionism" party also published a holiday booklet asking each of its Knesset members to name a lawmaker from another party they respect, with several such pairings noted. The article laments that many of these recognized lawmakers will not serve in the next Knesset.
Historically, cross-bloc cooperation was more common, with examples like Haim Oron and Dedi Zucker from Meretz collaborating on social legislation with members from religious parties, and Zehava Galon and Shuli Moalem working together on legislation against the clients of prostitution. However, this trend has declined significantly, with private bill submissions by coalition and opposition members dropping from 60% in the 20th Knesset (2015-2019) to 44% in the first Knesset of the current term. The article concludes that while a unity government is unlikely, reducing political polarization through improved discourse and potential future cooperation remains crucial.
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