- the effect of the premiership system on the shrinkage of the
two largest parties and the ascent of smaller parties;
- the ensuing instability of government coalitions, leading
to minority government - and a real need for consultative
government;
- the Israeli public’s frustration that their opinions are being
ignored because of this continual power play.
This unit has been developed to address
different perspectives of the election and its implications in
the political context, within a dynamic framework of structured
activities and background resources.
First of all, the series enables the educator
to recreate major elements of the campaign atmosphere in the contest
between the two candidates for Prime Minister, by presenting their
main agenda and linking to selected additional materials. This
process is essentially a narrower contest than seen in a Knesset
election, and the differences are therefore sharper, with each
candidate focusing on his potential constituency, somewhat recalling
the American and French systems. The constitutional background
and links have been provided to assist with all the queries that
the educator and participants may raise.
Next, the series addresses some realistic,
but hypothetical, issues facing the government; it explores how
the shifting political coalitions and Knesset party distribution
impact on policy and legislation. The resources and backgrounds
to this activity are extensive, with a primary focus on the Peace
Process and unresolved social problems in Israel.
Finally, in this climate, this activity
also opens up the question as to whether the new Prime Minister
will be able to form a government capable of survival, which is
vitally important at such a critical time in the Peace Process.
Which leaves everyone with the major question:
What will happen to Israel after
February 6th?