History of Reuven Rivlin

Reuven Rivlin, born on September 9, 1939, in Jerusalem, has been a prominent figure in Israeli politics, known for his dedication to democracy, social causes, and the idea of coexistence. A member of the Likud party, Rivlin’s career spans several decades, during which he served in various capacities including Knesset member, Speaker of the Knesset, Minister of Communications, and ultimately, the 10th President of Israel.

Rivlin was born into a well-known Jerusalemite family. His father, Yosef Yoel Rivlin, was a professor and a translator, a fact that contributed to Reuven's deep connection with Jewish culture and values from an early age. Rivlin's family has roots tracing back within the city for over a century before the establishment of Israel, which ingrained in him a profound connection to Jerusalem and an understanding of diverse cultural fabrics.

Rivlin's career in politics began with his active involvement in the Herut party, the forebear of Likud, where he climbed the ranks, showcasing an early penchant for leadership and dedication to Israeli society. He was elected to the Knesset for the first time in 1988, representing the Likud party. His early political years were marked by his support for free-market economics while simultaneously advocating for maintaining strong social services, a balance that he believed was imperative for Israel's well-being.

During his time in the Knesset, Rivlin was known for his strong commitment to democracy and his belief in integrative politics. He served on several committees, including the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, and was an outspoken advocate for environmental issues and social justice. Despite being a stalwart member of the right-wing Likud party, Rivlin often expressed views that were bipartisan, focusing on the importance of democracy, equal rights, and the rule of law.

In 2001, Rivlin was appointed Minister of Communications under Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. During his tenure, he promoted the privatization of communication services while advocating for competition in the industry to lower consumer prices. His ministerial role further polished his reputation as an astute politician with a keen understanding of economic issues.

Rivlin’s most influential role before his presidency was as Speaker of the Knesset, a position he first held from 2003 to 2006 and again from 2009 to 2013. As Speaker, Rivlin was respected for his impartiality and commitment to democratic processes, earning admiration across the political spectrum. He was instrumental in strengthening the role of the Knesset within Israeli governance, emphasizing transparency and accessibility.

Rivlin's contributions to Israeli politics were often influenced by his dedication to unity and coexistence. Throughout his career, he was an advocate for the Arab-Israeli community, promoting dialogue and integration of Arab citizens within Israeli society. He opposed any form of racism and was vocal about the need to bridge gaps between different religions and ethnicities in Israel. His views were exemplified during his presidency when he emphasized the importance of “shared citizenship,” encouraging Israelis to look beyond their ethnic and religious differences to find common ground.

On June 10, 2014, Reuven Rivlin was elected President of Israel, succeeding Shimon Peres. His presidency was marked by his commitment to serve as a moral compass for the nation, remaining above partisan politics while promoting unity. Rivlin’s tenure as president was notable for his advocacy for underrepresented groups within Israeli society, including focusing on social issues such as poverty and education reform.

Rivlin’s presidency was characterized by his outspoken demeanor and his willingness to address contentious issues. He frequently called for honest discourse on the future of Israel, particularly concerning its democratic character versus its Jewish identity. He emphasized the necessity of dialogue with the Palestinians and supported a vision where all populations within Israel could coexist peacefully.

Rivlin was regarded as a president for all Israelis, embracing diversity and aiming for inclusivity. His approach was often described as compassionate, addressing communities often ignored by political discourse. He met frequently with representatives of various communities, advocating for minority rights and speaking out against hate and division.

After serving a full seven-year term, Rivlin’s presidency ended in July 2021, succeeded by Isaac Herzog. Post-presidency, Rivlin continued to be active in advocacy, particularly on issues related to democracy and social justice. He remains a distinguished figure in Israeli history, remembered for his humanitarian outlook and commitment to the principles of democracy and coexistence.

Rivlin’s legacy is that of a politician who bravely called for unity in a society marked by division. His career highlights the possibilities of visionary leadership, driven by values of inclusivity and mutual respect, leaving a profound impact on Israeli society and politics.