In today’s digital world, accessing government services online should be simple, efficient, and accessible to all.
The Israel Internet Association (ISOC-IL) submitted a formal research and policy brief (Hebrew) ahead of a series of meetings by the Knesset Committee on Public Initiatives regarding the newly proposed ‘Digital Communication With Public Bodies’ legislation, which would require public bodies to provide services digitally, aiming to streamline bureaucracy, save time, and make services more accessible. On February 3, 2025, the legislative committee reconvened to brief legislators on the proposal, with Dr. Asaf Wiener, VP of Research and Public Policy at ISOC-IL, participating in the discussion. He presented ISOC-IL’s insights and key recommendations to ensure the law is drafted and implemented in a way that prioritizes accessibility, privacy, and citizens’ rights.
ISOC-IL’s Key Recommendations:
- Equality and Accessibility for All – Digital services must be accessible and equitable, particularly for populations with lower levels of digital orientation, such as the Arab community, seniors, and the ultra-Orthodox. ISOC-IL recommends referring to its Guide for Making Digital Information Accessible to the Arab Community (2021) and its Recommendations for Promoting Internet Use and Online Safety for the Senior Population (2024).
- Privacy Protection – Ensuring the security of government databases is essential for protecting citizens’ personal information. ISOC-IL emphasizes the need for strong data protection measures to accompany the shift to digital services.
- Balancing Efficiency and Rights – While digital services can improve efficiency, they must not come at the expense of citizens’ rights or access to services. ISOC-IL recommends creating public feedback channels so users can report issues, difficulties, and malfunctions, ensuring continuous improvement of digital platforms.
The Israel Internet Association welcomes the government’s and Knesset’s efforts to improve digital communication between the government and citizens. We remain committed to ensuring that digital transformation benefits all members of Israeli society.
Access the full meeting recording, proposed legislation, and supporting documents here: Knesset Public Initiatives Committee Meeting and Materials