Municipal Workers Have the Same Rights to Freedom of Expression and Protest as Anyone Else
- ACRI
- 4 days ago
- 1 min read
On July 1, 2026, ACRI sent an appeal to the Rehovot Municipality, demanding that it amend the guidelines distributed to municipal employees that categorically prohibit city employees from participating in demonstrations and marches, hosting political gatherings in their homes, and engaging in political activity during the election period.
ACRI Attorney Tal Hassin argues in the appeal that the municipality's guidelines are incorrect, misleading employees, and create an unlawful chilling effect on freedom of expression and protest. The law imposes restrictions on political activities during election periods only on certain officeholders and under specific circumstances, not on all employees of local authorities. Most municipal employees are entitled to participate in demonstrations, express political views, and take part in public life just like any other citizen.
ACRI is demanding that the municipality amend the guidelines and clarify to employees that their constitutional rights are not suspended during election periods, and that they may act in accordance with their conscience and values and engage in political activity during the election period, if they so choose.
ACRI’s appeal, July 1, 2026 (Heb)
