Max Planck Society opens office in Jerusalem
The office in Jerusalem aims to foster cooperation even in difficult times
The Max Planck Society’s new office in Jerusalem began its operations with Hila Elroy as the head of office as of 1 September 2024. Elroy, who has worked closely with Ron Robin, the former President of the University of Haifa for many years, also brings extensive expertise in international science management. The office is located at the Van Leer Jerusalem Institute, highlighting the long-standing collaboration between the Max Planck Society and the Institute, built on shared commitments to scientific excellence, innovation, democracy, and pluralism.
The office aims to serve as a crucial hub for maintaining and expanding connections between the Max Planck Society and Israeli researchers, particularly in the context of the current crises. The official opening ceremony, held in late November, brought together Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Max Planck President Patrick Cramer, and representatives from Israeli universities and research institutions, along with a small delegation from the MPG.
President Herzog welcomed the opening of the office as a decision in favour of cooperation and progress, and against extremism and hatred. He emphasised the indispensable role of free and independent science in Israel, especially in the current situation, stating that such freedom not only elevates the quality of scientific inquiry, but also serves as a cornerstone of a resilient and thriving democracy.
Cramer expressed deep regret that hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East remain unfulfilled so far (president`s speech): "We see the suffering of people throughout the entire region. We see the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. And we see that the war is causing a staggering number of civilian casualties.." The conflict’s long-term effects also threaten critical pillars of the region’s future, particularly education and scientific innovation.While Israel continues to be a global leader in high-tech innovation, ranking 15th out of 133 nations in the 2024 Global Innovation Index, these advancements are increasingly at risk due to the ongoing conflict.
Shai Lavi, Director of the Van Leer Jerusalem Institute, echoed these concerns, describing the times as "abnormal." He emphasised: "We must not normalise the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, the hostage-taking, the mass displacement of people in the south and north, the ongoing violations of the rule of law at national and international level, the increase in antisemitism and academic boycotts, the mounting threats to civil liberties and academic freedom."
Both agreed on the urgent need to strengthen scientific partnerships between Israeli and German researchers, especially now. The MPG’s new office seeks to bolster civil society and stand against the growing international marginalization of Israeli scientists, who are critical voices of reason in Israel, the majority of whom oppose the policies of the current government.
