WHAT IS HASBARA? The term hasbara has been receiving quite a bit of attention in Israel during the past few months, and even people living outside Israel are becoming familiar with the term. But what does it really mean? Hasbara is a word from the Hebrew language and is the noun form of the verb l'hasbir which means 'to explain' or 'to account for'. It was originally connected to the official position of the Israeli Government. For this reason it acquired a connotation of propaganda. However, the word is now used in a broader sense and has come to mean 'explaining Israel's case.' Sometimes it is from a position other than that of the official government one. [More] Copyright © 9 June 2002, Israel Hasbara Committee This article may be freely reproduced, but kindly quote the source.

There is a growing worldwide disinformation program against both Israel and World Jewry from mostly hostile Arab and Islamic sources. Once 'falsehoods' become 'truths' it is always more difficult to reverse the trend among the general population. Israel's and World Jewry's responses to attacks in the press, media and on university campuses have been minuscule and ineffective by comparison.

We have set up in Jerusalem a voluntary association to instigate an information (hasbara) program to better inform and explain facts to the worldwide general public. This will include educational sessions, giving interviews to press and media, participating at panel discussions, being active at Diaspora universities and taking advantage of spontaneous meetings.

Jewish communities around the world are blessed with a great number of talented and skilled persons in just about every field imaginable. We seek motivated individuals to involve themselves in some way in this program. People of all faiths are most welcome. We need regional monitors, representatives and correspondents.

There is considerable urgency in getting such an ambitious program underway.

Please sign up here to show your comittment. We will contact you to advise how you can get involved:

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