Publications

With the outbreak of the coronavirus in Israel, the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) set up a strategic-operational research team to formulate responses to the crisis on health, economic, societal, and security levels. To that end, we engaged some of the leading experts from the fields of health, economy, education, and welfare to contribute to the research and analytical thinking. We formulated a strategic approach to cope with and manage a crisis characterized by a high level of uncertainty (the INSS Strategic Framework), including an examination of ways to exit the lockdown quickly and jumpstart the Israeli economy and society. At the same time we examined the implications of Covid-19 for the region and the global environment, and explored whether there were any changes in the map of threats and challenges facing the State of Israel. On this basis, we updated our strategic assessment for Israel for 2020.

Our work and research studies were policy-oriented and designed to help Israel’s leaders and decision makers. Some were undertaken at the request of the National Security Council, the Ministry of Finance, and the security establishment. At the same time, we figured prominently in the public discourse through media appearances by INSS researchers, articles in the printed and digital press, and Zoom seminars that included public participation in question and answer sessions. We also held three simulations designed to simulate government discussions and the process of making the right decisions, as well as the possible consequence of the virus outbreak in the Gaza Strip. These simulations received wide media coverage.

The Institute’s goals included reaching new and varied audiences; building a knowledge infrastructure with the participation of INSS and external experts; influencing the public debate on responses to the crisis; and sharpening the Institute’s contribution to strategic planning and management of a national security crisis.

We invite you to look at the complete booklet, and get a sense of INSS activity as the pandemic was spreading.