About
Our Mission Statement and State of Mind
The Abba Eban Institute for Diplomacy & Foreign Relations at the Lauder School of Government, Diplomacy, and Strategy at Reichman University, together with the Samson Chair for Israeli Public Diplomacy, is a policy-oriented research institute dedicated to strengthening Israel’s diplomatic capacity and international standing.
In the aftermath of a prolonged conflict and a profound rupture, the Institute is recalibrating its efforts to rebuild connections and to help craft a forward-looking foreign policy suited to the regional and global challenges of the decade ahead.
In a period of disruption and uncertainty, the Institute works across analysis, policy development, and international engagement to support the effective conduct of statecraft in a contested international environment, treating diplomacy as a core instrument of national power.
Diplomacy and Strategy for a New Era
Israel is entering a period of profound strategic change. Its security environment now reflects a convergence of immediate threats and wider geopolitical disruption, challenging established assumptions about power, alliances, and international order. This reality requires renewed strategic thinking and a reassessment of diplomacy as a core instrument of national power.
Intensified competition among major powers, growing strain on international institutions, and a more fragmented global economy increasingly shape the diplomatic space in which Israel operates. Foreign policy is conducted in a permanently contested information environment, where influence operations, disinformation, and coordinated manipulation are persistent features.
Rapid technological change, including developments in artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities, and emerging quantum technologies, accelerates these dynamics and reshapes both the substance and practice of diplomacy.
For Israel, these conditions intersect directly with national security, economic resilience, and international standing. Israel must recalibrate its foreign policy priorities and build the capacity to meet the current and emerging challenges.
The Abba Eban Institute analyzes and advances policy debate on how Israel can adapt its diplomatic strategy to these conditions, contributing policy-relevant ideas and strategic perspectives suited to the challenges of a new era.
From Ideas to Action
The Institute is oriented towards tangible outcomes. It moves beyond analysis for its own sake, translating research and strategic insight into policy-relevant action and measurable results.
To do so, the Institute builds partnerships with individuals and organizations across government, defense, hi-tech, and civil society.
It works closely with policymakers, diplomats, and other practitioners, combining academic and applied research with hands-on experience to help bring about durable change.
The Abba Eban Institute’s work is organized around three interconnected pillars: applied research, public engagement, and accredited academic education.
Together, they link insight to action, connect analysis to practice, and help prepare the next generation of professionals in diplomacy and public policy.
Applied Research & Action
Focusing on Israel’s key strategic challenges, the Institute conducts applied thematic and regional research, complemented by high-level workshops and special events that convene policymakers, experts, and international partners. Taken together, these activities generate insight that is translated into action and supports real-world policy application.
Public Diplomacy & International Engagement
Strengthening Israel’s public diplomacy by cultivating a cadre of credible and authentic civilian voices, drawn from across Israeli society, and equipping them to engage thoughtfully with international audiences. Alongside this, the Institute sustains ongoing international engagement through professional exchanges, seminars, and dialogue with academic, policy, and diplomatic counterparts, deepening informed discussion and long-term professional relationships.
Accredited Academic Education
Contributing to the education and preparation of future policy and diplomacy professionals through accredited academic teaching at Reichman University’s Lauder School of Government, Diplomacy, and Strategy. Courses combine theoretical foundations with applied perspectives.
The Institute also provides accredited internships for BA and MA students, offering practical exposure to Reichman University students and select international visiting students.
Governance
In accordance with Reichman University regulations, the Board of Governors provides strategic oversight and guidance for the Institute’s activities, ensuring alignment with its mission and academic standards.
The Board of Governors is chaired by Joanna Landau who supports the Institute’s development. She is currently leading efforts to establish the Reputation and Security Lab (RSL) at the Abba Eban Institute.
