NGO Monitor Founder Gerald Steinberg Steps Down After 25 Years, Olga Deutsch to Take Helm

Prof. Gerald M. Steinberg, founder and longtime president of the watchdog group NGO Monitor, is relinquishing daily operations after a quarter-century of leadership, the organization revealed on Tuesday.

Steinberg will assume the title of president emeritus, paving the way for Olga Deutsch, the seasoned vice president, to step up as CEO and president. This marks NGO Monitor's first leadership handover, set to commence January 1, 2027.

Steinberg launched NGO Monitor in 2002 in response to the Durban Conference, highlighting his worries about human rights groups turning political, especially against Israel.

The 2001 United Nations World Conference Against Racism in Durban, South Africa, gained notoriety for singling out Israel and Zionism, as the accompanying NGO Forum branded Zionism akin to racism and apartheid.

"As I move to President Emeritus and focus on research and writing, I have complete faith in NGO Monitor's path ahead," Steinberg stated in the transition announcement. "The obstacles we face are daunting, but so is the expertise, commitment, and talent of our outstanding staff. Olga possesses the unique skills to guide NGO Monitor onward, amplifying our research's reach and preserving the principles that have driven me for these 25 years."

Deutsch has served NGO Monitor for over ten years, spearheading European engagement and forging global alliances, per the organization.

Pressing Forward Against Rising Antisemitism

"I approach this position with deep humility and a keen awareness of its historical weight," Deutsch remarked. "Gerald anticipated how human rights organizations would misuse their power against the Jewish state and communities globally; events since October 7 have validated that foresight, with dangers escalating daily."

"NGO Monitor is uniquely equipped at this pivotal time to unmask those orchestrating these efforts and equip policymakers with vital data for effective choices. With our remarkable team and leaders, I am privileged to advance this vital work."