Localizing Religious Pluralism: Local Authorities as the Flag Holders of Freedom from Religion in Israel

• In Event: Comparative Politics Lightning Round

Abstract

Under which circumstances local government's responsiveness to its resident's preferences overtakes the central government's ability to account for public preferences at the national level? This study argues that, (1) A lacuna in public services at the national level due to institutional constraints, leading to 2) societal dissatisfaction as expressed by public opinion, as well as (3) local politicians in search of political gains, will lead local governments to supply the lacking services. We further argue that the local government's goal in providing the lacking services is to enhance local democracy as well as citizen’s satisfaction, while still improving the mayor’s political gains. Using a mixed method design, this study compares religion-based policies in Israel, namely: marriage, public transportation on the Jewish Saturday (Sabbath), and commerce on Sabbath – each exemplifies efforts made by local governments to supply these services as an act of responsiveness to its resident's preferences.

Author

• Niva Golan-Nadir, Center for Policy Research, Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy, The University at Albany