The corruption and autocracy nexus: The case of “King Bibi”
Norman Eisen, Mansi Patel, and Kai Smith
Brookings
April 10, 2023

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Some commentators felt that the appearance of Benjamin Netanyahu was an embarrassing exception to the many successes of the recently concluded Summit for Democracy. We disagree. To be sure, Netanyahu’s remarks in praise of democracy were disingenuous given his recent behavior.

But his appearance was a vivid reminder of the connection between corruption and democratic backsliding — two things of which Netanyahu stands accused. Moreover, it also reminded us of the massive protests that have greeted his assault on democracy, and so, of another important point: the central role of ordinary people in safeguarding that political system.

Behind the enormous demonstrations that have roiled Israel in recent weeks are Netanyahu’s corruption problems and his proposed response — which threatens the foundations of Israeli democracy.