The controversy surrounding the appointment of retired IDF Brigadier-General Gal Hirsch as the next Chief of Israel Police has led many to question if Israelis have faith in Israel Police. The annual Democracy Index shows recent shakeups in the department have taken a toll.
The poll was conducted by the Israel Democracy Institute, showing that only 42% of Israeli have faith in the department as a result of cases on bribery and immorality have led to the forced resignation of a number of senior commanders. The figure represents a drop of 19% as compared to a poll taken three years ago.
The poll was released on Tuesday 17 Elul as part of Democracy Index. The sharp drop from 61% support signals the waning faith by civilians in the department. The downward trend was also evident in 2014.
Officials involved in the report explain the recent scandals that have plagued the highest levels of Israel Police, the bribery cases and the immorality that was linked to high officers whom have since been compelled to resign, has taken a toll regarding the willingness of citizens to trust the nation’s police force.
The annual Democracy Index has been released yearly since 2003 and the poll involves 1,200 respondents.
(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)
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3 Responses
I’m not sure where you get your stats. A few tears back there was a poll. 87% have NO faith in the police. (the 13% that do was family and friends)
I’m American, living in yerusalayim. As an American we know to call the police when there is a problem. I noticed the Israelis don’t bother. I was surprised. I later learned that it’s A TOTAL WASTE OF TIME. Totally corrupt. Policemen are dropouts who couldn’t make the army.
Years ago a friend said that he’s so surprised his neighbor is a cop, as he’s afraid of his own shadow.
Most Americans know when coming together Israel STAY AWAY FROM THE POLICE.
Don’t even get me stated on the corrupt police brutality….
the police only pick on Jews but let Arabs do as they wish. and if youre a religous Jew its even worse.
Police in Israel are not like in many normal cities of USA. In USA they talk nice and act as service people, ready to help.
In Israel they are tough not service type people. They are ready to hit and beat and not the type you want unless an emergency.
Anyway, both in Israel and US, speak courteously to a policeman and watch your actions, no matter what the circustances.