Histadrut

The Histadrut (Hebrew: הִסְתַּדְּרוּת, lit. "The General Organization [of Workers in the Land of Israel]"), officially known as the HaHistadrut HaKlalit shel HaOvdim B'Eretz Yisrael (ההסתדרות הכללית של העובדים בארץ ישראל‎), is Israel's national trade union center. It was founded in December 1920 in Mandatory Palestine.

Originally, the Histadrut was a significant actor in the development of the Yishuv (the Jewish community in Mandatory Palestine) and later in the State of Israel. Its initial purpose was to serve as a trade union and advocate for workers' rights, but it quickly expanded its activities into various economic sectors. The Histadrut established and managed a wide range of enterprises, including factories, agricultural settlements (kibbutzim and moshavim), construction companies, and banks. This gave it considerable economic and political power.

For many years, the Histadrut was a dominant force in Israeli society, playing a crucial role in healthcare (through Kupat Holim Clalit), education, and welfare services. It was closely aligned with the Labor Party and served as a major source of political leadership.

In the 1990s, the Histadrut underwent significant reforms to address criticisms regarding its size, inefficiency, and the conflict of interest inherent in its dual role as both an employer and a workers' advocate. It divested itself of most of its economic enterprises and focused primarily on its core function as a trade union representing workers' interests.

Today, the Histadrut continues to be a major player in Israel's labor market, advocating for workers' rights, negotiating collective bargaining agreements, and providing legal assistance to its members. It is affiliated with the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). Its influence, while diminished compared to its early years, remains substantial in shaping labor policy and advocating for social justice in Israel.