About Us

The Haifa Laboratory for Religious Studies (HLRS) was established in 2020 with the goal of promoting positive social and civic change while adhering to the principles of mutual respect, as reflected in the civic structures employed by various religious communities, as well as those adopted by society and the state.

At the core of the HLRS's work is the recognition that religions play a pivotal role in today's societies. We believe that religious communities are not only spiritual entities but also social systems through which a wide variety of social and civic initiatives — such as social solidarity, environmentalism, education, and social justice — can be promoted.

The activity of the HLRS derives first and foremost from the recognition of the uniqueness of the University of Haifa as an academic institution operating in a multi-religious urban space, at the center of which operates the largest multi-religious, multicultural and multilingual campus in Israel.

Haifa is one of the most multi-religious cities in the world. The city's religious mosaic features a manifold of Jewish communities (Orthodox, Conservative and Reform), a Muslim community, an Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, diverse Christian communities, Bahá'í World Center representatives, and even a considerable Druze presence.

The HLRS seeks to harness religious pluralism in order to strengthen the fabric of shared societies. It is dedicated to equipping people and expanding a space for mutual understanding, making significant strides in fostering peace, coexistence, and respect among various faiths.

This initiative is the first of its kind in Israel and most likely in the world. Since its inception, the HLRS has conducted a multitude of academic events, both on a national and international scale.