Israel Holds One of the World's Longest Continuous Democracies Since 1948
Shahar Lotan, an economic and strategic researcher and former intelligence officer, highlights in his blog the misconception that Israel is a young democracy still finding its way. Contrary to common belief, Israel, established in 1948, is among the world's oldest continuous democracies without interruptions or regime changes. The next Israeli elections are scheduled for October 27, 2026, with political campaigns already underway.
Lotan points out that many established democracies, especially in Europe, experienced breaks due to World War II and totalitarian regimes, with countries like France, Italy, Germany, and Austria only regaining stable democratic governance after the war. Other nations such as Greece, Spain, and Portugal ended long dictatorships only in the late 1970s, while Eastern Europe emerged from Soviet control in the 1990s. Major democratic waves in Asia, Africa, and South America mostly occurred in the latter half of the 20th century. Out of approximately 200 UN member states, only about 20 have uninterrupted democratic histories longer than Israel's.
Unlike many older democracies that took decades of struggle to grant universal suffrage, Israel was born a formal democracy granting equal voting rights to all adult citizens, including women, minorities, and even prisoners, from its first elections. This democratic tradition stems from the Zionist movement's institutional roots, dating back to the 1897 First Zionist Congress in Basel, which established democratic decision-making principles. The Jewish community in Mandatory Palestine also held competitive elections before statehood, ensuring Israel began with a functioning political system, diverse parties, and an engaged public.
Lotan's analysis challenges the narrative of Israel as a nascent democracy, positioning it instead within the core group of the world's longstanding democratic nations. This perspective underscores Israel's unique democratic heritage and stability amid global political shifts.
