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About
Gerald M. Steinberg (born 1952) is an Israeli academic, political scientist, political activist, and professor emeritus of political studies at Bar-Ilan University in Israel. He is best known as the founder and president of NGO Monitor, a Jerusalem-based think tank that analyzes and critiques the activities of non-governmental organizations, particularly those involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, focusing on issues of transparency, accountability, and political bias in international law and human rights advocacy. His work emphasizes Israel's public diplomacy and the role of NGOs in shaping global perceptions of the Middle East.
Steinberg founded the Program on Conflict Management and Negotiation at Bar-Ilan University. His academic background spans science and political science: he initially studied physics at the University of California, Berkeley (where he also worked at NASA), pursued graduate studies in astrophysics at UC San Diego, and completed a dual expertise fellowship at Cornell University, earning a doctorate in Government. His dissertation formed the basis of his first book 'Satellite Reconnaissance: The Role of Informal Bargaining,' exploring the intersection of science, technology, and international relations.
Over his career, Steinberg has contributed to journalism and opinion writing, appearing in media outlets and producing works on international relations, Middle East diplomacy, security, and the politics of human rights. As a prominent figure in Israeli advocacy, he has been involved in political activism, critiquing what he views as biased NGO reporting on Israel. He has been featured in documentaries and news programs, including 'Unmasked Judeophobia: The Threat to Civilization' and appearances on BBC World News and The Bolt Report. His research interests include Israeli politics, conflict resolution, and the influence of NGOs on global policy.