Basic Law: Human Dignity and Liberty
חוק-יסוד: כבוד האדם וחירותו
Unofficial English translation — for reference only. It may contain errors or omissions and cannot be relied on as a legal text. Only the Hebrew text published in Reshumot is legally binding.More
This English text was translated from the official Hebrew using a range of translation tools, and it undergoes ongoing checks and updates. It is not a certified translation.
Despite these checks, it may contain errors, omissions, or imprecise renderings of legal terminology and cross-references, and it may not yet reflect the latest amendments. It cannot be relied upon as a legal text.
The Hebrew text as published in Reshumot (ספר החוקים) and on the Knesset website is the sole authoritative and legally binding version. In any discrepancy, the Hebrew text prevails.
This translation is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For use in legal proceedings, request a certified Expert Legal Opinion.
Fundamental Principles§
The fundamental rights of the individual in Israel are founded upon recognition of the value of the human being, the sanctity of human life, and the principle that all persons are free; and they shall be upheld in the spirit of the principles set forth in the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel.
Purpose§
The purpose of this Basic Law is to protect human dignity and liberty, in order to anchor in a Basic Law the values of the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state.
Preservation of Life, Body and Dignity§
There shall be no violation of the life, body or dignity of any person as a human being.
Preservation of Property§
There shall be no violation of the property of a person.
Protection of Life, Body and Dignity§
Every person is entitled to protection of his life, body and dignity.
Personal Liberty§
There shall be no deprivation or restriction of the liberty of a person by imprisonment, detention, extradition or any other means.
Departure from and Entry into Israel§
Privacy and Intimacy§
Violation of Rights§
There shall be no violation of rights under this Basic Law except by a law befitting the values of the State of Israel, enacted for a proper purpose, and to an extent no greater than is required, or pursuant to such a law by virtue of an express authorisation therein.
Reservation Regarding Security Forces§
There shall be no restriction of rights under this Basic Law of persons serving in the Israel Defence Forces, the Israel Police, the Israel Prison Service and other security organisations of the State, nor shall conditions be imposed on such rights, except by law and to an extent no greater than is required by the nature and character of the service.
Savings Provisions§
Nothing in this Basic Law shall affect the validity of any law in force on the eve of the commencement of this Basic Law.
Application§
Every governmental authority is bound to respect the rights under this Basic Law.
Stability of the Law§
Emergency regulations shall not alter this Basic Law, temporarily suspend its validity or impose conditions upon it; however, when a state of emergency exists in the State by virtue of a declaration under section 9 of the Law and Administration Ordinance, 5708-1948, emergency regulations may be made under that section that derogate from or restrict rights under this Basic Law, provided that such derogation or restriction is for a proper purpose and for a period and to an extent no greater than is required.
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