Prof. Gerald M. Steinberg, the founder and president of research institute NGO Monitor, will step down from day-to-day management after 25 years at the helm, the organization announced on Tuesday.
Steinberg will transition to the role of president emeritus, while long-time Vice President Olga Deutsch will become CEO and president in what the group described as its first-ever leadership transition. The change will take effect on January 1, 2027.
Steinberg established NGO Monitor in 2002 following the Durban Conference, citing concerns over what he described as the politicization of human rights organizations, particularly in relation to Israel.
The 2001 UN World Conference Against Racism in Durban, South Africa, became well-known for specific targeting of Israel and Zionism, with the NGO Forum equating Zionism with racism and apartheid.
“As I transition into the role of President Emeritus, and continue with research and writing, I do so with full confidence in NGO Monitor’s future," Steinberg said in a statement announcing the transition. "The challenges we confront remain formidable, as is the strength, professionalism, and dedication of our amazing team. Olga is distinctly qualified to lead NGO Monitor forward, and under her leadership, NGO Monitor will continue to expand the impact of its research and uphold the vision that has guided me for the past quarter century.”
Deutsch has been with NGO Monitor for more than a decade, working on European outreach and building partnerships with organizations worldwide, according to the group.
Continuing to combat the growing threat of antisemitism
“I step into this role with humility and a profound sense of historic responsibility,” Deutsch said. "Gerald foresaw that human rights groups would weaponize their influence against the Jewish state and Jewish communities worldwide; since October 7, that warning has become reality, with the threat growing every day."
"At this critical moment, NGO Monitor stands singularly positioned to expose the actors behind these campaigns, and to arm decision-makers with facts needed to inform sound policy decisions. Together with our exceptional team, and our professional and lay leadership, I am honored to lead this mission forward.”