The Israel Association for Feminist and Gender Studies was established in March 1998 by a group of feminists scholars representing the five national universities and major independent colleges in Israel. Their vision was to create an umbrella organization that would tend the needs of scholars who teach, research or learn about feminism, gender issues or feminist studies; and to help create and develop the discipline throughout the country. The main objective of the IAFGS is to promote gender studies and to encourage knowledge that will ultimately lead to the improvement of both women's and men's lives in Israel. This goal will be achieved by supporting institutions that partake in the research and teaching of feminist and gender studies. The IAFGS acknowledges and recognizes difference, wide range of perspective and is committed to pluralistic thought.