Watch this episode without interruptions.
Listen wherever you get your podcasts.
In a recent discussion, Dr. Gerald Steinberg, founder and president of NGO Monitor, detailed his organization’s scrutiny of international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and their influence on anti-Israel narratives.
Steinberg described how NGOs such as Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor, Save the Children, and the Norwegian Refugee Council play a central role in shaping media and UN reporting, often without critical verification of claims.
Steinberg traced the historical roots of anti-Israel campaigns to post-1948 geopolitical developments, highlighting the Soviet Union’s early role in framing Zionism as racist.
He noted the rise of influential NGOs during the 1990s and 2000s, emphasizing their growing capacity to disseminate narratives in global media and UN forums. According to Steinberg, these organizations, often staffed by politically motivated personnel, coordinate campaigns that can influence public perception and policy discussions.
Discussing the NYT op-ed
The conversation examined the specific case of a New York Times op-ed alleging Israeli sexual violence, citing multiple NGOs. Steinberg described how reports from these NGOs, particularly Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor, were leveraged in a coordinated media effort, often relying on unverifiable testimonies. He characterized these tactics as part of a long-standing practice of “mirror imaging,” where actions by Palestinian actors are inverted onto Israel to shift focus from atrocities committed by Hamas or other groups.
Steinberg underscored the systematic nature of this media and NGO-driven strategy, pointing to coordinated reporting, press conferences, and social media amplification designed to maximize impact. He further highlighted instances where allegedly salacious claims, such as the controversial dog allegation in the Kristof op-ed, were promoted despite questionable sourcing, demonstrating how these narratives can gain traction before accurate evidence is publicized.
Concluding, Steinberg expressed optimism that increased scrutiny of NGO practices is emerging, noting that internal critiques and public awareness could eventually challenge the influence of politically driven reporting. He also confirmed his planned transition from NGO Monitor leadership later this year, ensuring continuity under experienced management.