Knesset

Israel's political system

The Knesset in winter

Frumin entrance

Knesset Building (South Side)

KnessetBuildingNov152022

Knesset Guard P5200034

Knesset is the unicameral national legislature of Israel. As the supreme state body, the Knesset enacts laws, elects the President of Israel, approves the cabinet, and supervises the work of the government through its committees. It also has the power to waive the immunity of its members, declare war, and ratify treaties and peace agreements. The Knesset sits in Jerusalem, the capital of Israel.

History

The Knesset was established in 1949, following the creation of the State of Israel. It replaced the Provisional State Council, which served as Israel's temporary legislative body from 1948 until the Knesset's formation. The name "Knesset" is derived from the Knesset HaGedolah (The Great Assembly), a council of Jewish representatives in ancient times. The Knesset convened for the first time on February 14, 1949.

Structure

The Knesset consists of 120 members, known as Members of Knesset (MKs), who are elected to four-year terms in national elections. The entire country serves as a single electoral constituency. The Knesset's composition reflects the results of these elections, which are conducted on the basis of proportional representation. This system allows for a wide range of parties to be represented in the legislature.

Functions and Powers

The Knesset has several key functions and powers, including:

• Legislation: The Knesset enacts laws that affect almost every aspect of life in Israel.
• Oversight: It supervises government activities through its committees and can summon government officials for questioning.
• Budget Approval: The Knesset approves the state's budget.
• Electing Key Officials: It elects the President of Israel and approves the Prime Minister's cabinet appointments.
• Foreign Relations: The Knesset ratifies international treaties and agreements.

Committees

The Knesset operates through a system of committees that deal with various areas such as finance, foreign affairs, defense, education, and health. These committees prepare legislation for debate in the full Knesset and oversee the implementation of laws and government policy.

Building

The Knesset building is located in Givat Ram, Jerusalem. It was funded by James A. de Rothschild as a gift to the State of Israel and was completed in 1966. The building is notable for its distinctive architecture and houses the main plenary hall, committee rooms, and offices for Knesset members and staff.

Significance

The Knesset plays a crucial role in Israel's democracy and governance. It is a symbol of Israeli sovereignty and the democratic process. The Knesset's decisions and legislation have a profound impact on the lives of Israeli citizens and the direction of the country.