IIDR - The International Institute for Democratic Resilience
Beit-Berl academic college pioneering initiative in collaborative civic innovation
The International Institute for Democratic Resilience is a first of its kind initiative that bridges education, communities and civil society to co create initiatives that strengthen the social fabric of Israel. It marks a significant step in building an international knowledge and practice hub that connects academic action-research with a rapidly changing social and political reality.
Why now?
Globally and in Israel, liberal democracies are under strain. Social polarization, civic apathy and declining public trust threaten the basic values of liberty, equality and human rights. Beit Berl Academic College, with its longstanding commitment to values based education and community engagement, has chosen this moment to establish the Institute. Our aim is to develop innovative, collaborative tools that fortify democracy—especially in times of crisis—by harnessing the diversity of Israeli society as a source of strength rather than division.
How it works: the incubator
Our flagship program functions as an incubator for democratic resilience. Select participants—emerging social leaders from across Israel—begin with an intensive seminars focused on collaborative skills and theoretical foundations. Guided by experienced mentors, they then design and launch joint initiatives that promote democratic resilience, supported by seed funding from the College. Each initiative seeks to bridge communities, deepen democratic discourse and build civic trust. The program culminates in an international conference where participants present their work and forge global leading partnerships.
The emphasis is on co-creating collaborations that cultivate trust and open dialogue, instilling a shared sense of responsibility for society’s future, and nurturing a sustainable democratic sphere that thrives on listening, learning and adaptability.
Long term impact and collaboration
The institute’s strategy operates on three interconnected levels. Within the College, an excellence program combines theoretical study with practical tools to cultivate innovative democratic initiatives. Nationally, we build networks of cooperation among academic institutions, civil society organizations and the public sector to nurture student leadership and institutionalize breakthrough projects. Internationally, we facilitate knowledge exchanges and delegations with leading institutions worldwide to share and refine innovative models and to deepen global democratic resilience.
Our accelerator will generate practical initiatives that enhance social cohesion and promote democratic values in diverse communities. Each innovative initiative is expected to directly affect its local context while contributing to a larger ecosystem of educational and civic endeavors. Partnerships forged through these programs connect community leaders who collectively defend democracy and strengthen social unity.
We invite you to join us—whether as a participant, partner or supporter—to turn this vision into reality. Together we can contribute to a stronger social fabric and build a more resilient democratic future for all.
