Despite the lack of progress, it's difficult to find any respectable Russian who will defend his country's socialist economic history, or clamor to re-establish the former regime. I returned to Israel this past October after a four-year absence. Socialism is alive and well in Israel. He replaces the former prime minister, Shimon Peres, who becomes an honorary president. The reform, which would reduce insurance premiums for Israeli motorists by ending Avner's monopoly, was due to take effect this coming January.
Socialism continues to deprive the Israeli people of economic freedom.
The country's scholars, politicians, and, most of all, its media continue to staunchly defend Israel's socialist system against any criticism, especially by fellow Jews pushing free-market reform. I stayed at the Sheraton Plaza Hotel on King George Street, my home away from home in Jerusalem. Each morning and evening, as I walked to and from the Institute, I followed the same route I took four years ago. The streets, cars, and shops were as run down as before - maybe worse. Nothing had changed for the better - or cleaner.