Biased Appointments under Meritocracy The Israeli Model

Abstract

This paper examines several features of the Civil Service Appointments Law, illustrating the gradual transition from the British influenced meritocratic model Israel sought to emulate to a less meritocratic model under which many appointments are made without tenders, that is - appointments. By reviewing this process, this essay examine the trend of biased appointments, reveal the various regulatory mechanisms and try to determine whether the erosion of the classic meritocratic model constitutes a failure of the regulatory mechanisms or rather a conscious shift in the appointments model. This essay proposes ways to strengthen the civil service appointment system in Israel limiting the amount of appointments without tenders, in terms of type and volume, as well as focusing on quality and skills even if the appointments are warranted on an individual and/or political basis.