Basel Program

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Zionist Congress

Basel Program

The Basel Program was the manifesto of the Zionist movement. It was formulated by Max Nordau and ratified in the First Zionist Congress, held in Basel, Switzerland in 1897. The program’s key objective was presented in its opening line: "Zionism aims at establishing for the Jewish people a publicly and legally assured home in Eretz Yisrael…"

For the attainment of this purpose, four means were set: The promotion of settling Eretz Yisrael with Jewish agriculturists, artisans, and tradesmen; the gathering of all Jews into effective groups of action, local or general, in accordance with the laws of the various countries; the strengthening of the Jewish-national feeling and consciousness; and taking preparatory steps for the acceptance of worldwide recognition necessary for the achievement of the Zionist purpose.