The Jewish People Policy Institute

Jewish identity underlies the sense of belonging shared by members of the Jewish people. Recognition of Jewish “connection” is a necessary condition for Jewish cohesion, solidarity, and mutual responsibility.

But preserving and cultivating Jewish identity is becoming a daunting challenge in today’s open and globalized world. Basic questions of principle arise: Is it possible to characterize a shared set of identity components for a people deeply divided over issues of culture, nationality, and religion? How should Jewish identity be expressed in the nation-state of the Jewish people? Is the preservation of Israel’s Jewish identity compatible with liberal and democratic values? The Center for Jewish-Israeli Identity addresses these issues as key to the preservation of Jewish identity and to ensuring a thriving Jewish future.