Statement by the Spokesperson on the passage of the new NGO law in the Israeli Knesset

The reporting requirements imposed by the new law go beyond the legitimate need for transparency and seem aimed at constraining the activities of these civil society organisations working in Israel.

Israel enjoys a vibrant democracy, freedom of speech and a diverse civil society which are an integral part of the values which Israel and the EU both hold dear. This new legislation risks undermining these values. We call upon Israel to continue to promote its active NGO sector and to refrain from actions which may complicate the space in which civil society organisations operate and which may curtail freedom of expression and association.