Today, on the 10th of May 2010, Israel has become a member of the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Israel’s admittance to an establishment solely accepting constituents with high-income economies and high Human Development Index (HDI) demonstrates its accession to the family of developed countries. The OECD now counts 34 members, including the G8 members (minus Russia) and most European countries.

In its efforts to become a member of the OECD, Israel has reformed its economy in areas involving combating corruption or protecting intellectual property rights for example. The country will benefit from the transformative effects of OECD membership and the OECD will take advantage of Israel’s advanced scientific and technological policies.

The decision to accept Israel as a permanent member was unanimous, although anti-Israeli groups tried to prevent Israel’s entry to the organisation. These failed attempts are proof of Israel’s firm stand in the international community. They demonstrate that the Jewish state is appreciated for its achievements, despite violent criticism of its political decisions and security policy. Israel is succesfully integrating into more and more international forums, thus countering anti-Zionist efforts to undermine Israel in the international arena.