Michael Harish

17 Apr 2001
 
     
Michael Harish
 
 
  Michael Harish was born in Romania in 1936, and immigrated to Israel as a teenager. He holds a degree in economics and political science from the Hebrew University.

Harish began his public career as one of the founders of the Labor Party's Young Guard (1966). As director of the party's International Department (1967-82), he helped marshal the support of world Socialist leaders against the Arab boycott, and was instrumental in the establishment of diplomatic relations with Spain. As Secretary-General of the Labor Party (since 1989), Harish implemented a far-reaching program of reorganization, including the introduction of primaries for party elections. He has also served as Chairman of the Labor Party's Political Committee, Chairman of the Israel Center for Energy Policy, and a member of the executive of the Public Council for Soviet Jewry.

Harish served as a Member of Knesset from 1974-1996, and has served on the following Committees: Economy (1974-77); Public Services (1974-77); House Committee (1977-81); Foreign Affairs and Defense (1977-88); and Finance (1988-92), which he chaired until March 1989. He also chaired the sub-committee on Energy (1977-84).

From 1992-1996 he served as Minister of Industry and Trade.