Israel Hosts First-Ever Democracy Festival at Glilot
Israel's first Democracy Festival at BIG FASHION Glilot brings together political leaders from across the spectrum for open public debates ahead of the upcoming elections.
Israel is hosting its first-ever Democracy Festival at the BIG FASHION Glilot complex, bringing together political leaders and candidates from across the spectrum for open public discourse ahead of the upcoming elections. Scheduled for October 12-13, the event is free and open to the public.
Festival Schedule and Key Speakers
The two-day event features prominent journalists and politicians. Monday's sessions are hosted by Reshet 13 political correspondent Moriah Asraf and Haaretz political reporter Michael Hauser Tov. Opening speeches feature National Unity leader Benny Gantz, Energy Minister Eli Cohen of the Likud party, and The Democrats leader Yair Golan.
"This is not a secret that the upcoming elections are among the most fateful we have ever had. If we have the opportunity to give all of Israel an equal platform, we are proud to do so," said Hay Galis, CEO of BIG Shopping Centers.
Tuesday's lineup includes Otzma Yehudit Chairman Itamar Ben Gvir, Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Lieberman, Be-Yachad leader Naftali Bennett, Yashar! party leader Gadi Eisenkot, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.
Origins of the Initiative
The idea for the festival was brought back by journalist Michael Hauser Tov after visiting a similar democracy event in Scandinavia. Despite skepticism from critics who warned of political tensions, the BIG group decided to sponsor and host the unprecedented gathering to encourage civic engagement.
