The World Zionist Organization (WZO), originally founded as the Zionist Organization (ZO) in 1897 by Theodor Herzl at the First Zionist Congress in Basel, Switzerland, is a semi-governmental Israeli organization dedicated to promoting Zionism—the movement advocating for the establishment and support of a Jewish national homeland in Israel. Its foundational goals, outlined in the Basel Program, focused on creating a home in Palestine secured under public law for the Jewish people. Over the decades, the WZO has played a pivotal role in Jewish immigration to Israel (aliyah), land acquisition through entities like the Jewish National Fund, and financial support via the Jewish Colonial Trust. Following the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, the organization adapted its structure, renaming itself the World Zionist Organization in 1960 and integrating with Israeli institutions while maintaining its global outreach to Jewish communities. Today, the WZO operates as a non-governmental organization with semi-governmental characteristics, committed to fostering Zionist education, strengthening Jewish identity worldwide, and supporting Israel's development in line with the Jerusalem Program adopted in 1968. It oversees departments focused on aliyah promotion, youth movements, and cultural activities, while subsidiary bodies such as Keren Hayesod (United Israel Appeal) and the Jewish National Fund continue to channel funds for settlement and development projects. The organization maintains a close relationship with the Israeli government, acting as a bridge between the Jewish diaspora and Israel. The WZO's activities have been controversial, particularly regarding allegations of supporting illegal settlements in occupied territories (including West Bank settlements), which critics describe as contributing to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and as part of an ongoing colonial project in Palestine that has led to displacement of indigenous populations. Despite these controversies, it remains a key player in global Jewish advocacy, with sections like the American Section operating as tax-exempt nonprofits to fundraise and educate on Zionist principles. The WZO holds regular Zionist Congresses and collaborates with bodies like the Jewish Agency for Israel. Its American Section reports annual revenues around $6.8 million. Historically, leaders like Chaim Weizmann and David Ben-Gurion shaped its direction during the British Mandate period, positioning it as the de facto Jewish Agency. Current efforts include educational initiatives and responses to global antisemitism, such as condemning policies perceived as anti-Israel. The WZO's influence extends through financial conduits and partnerships, supporting ongoing projects in Israel and abroad. The organization is headquartered in Jerusalem.