The Hijacking of Human Rights - with Michal Cotler-Wunsh

The Hijacking of Human Rights - with Michal Cotler-Wunsh

Author: Boundless Israel, Inc. April 7, 2025 Duration: 42:22

In this longform edition of Boundless Insights, Dr. Rachel Fish sits down with Michal Cotler-Wunsh — Israel’s Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism and a former Member of Knesset — for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolution of antisemitism, the weaponization of international law, and the global implications of October 7.

Michal argues that the misuse of human rights language, including terms like "genocide" and "apartheid," has served to delegitimize Israel, and she calls urgently for moral clarity and consistency in applying human rights principles globally.

Drawing from her own personal journey — from early childhood in Jerusalem’s Knesset corridors to formative years in Canada — Michal brings a rare perspective to understanding Israel from both the inside out and the outside in. She shares deeply personal stories, including memories of playing in the Knesset and visiting the home of Menachem Begin, while also offering sharp political insight into the modern-day challenges facing the Jewish people and the international community.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.

Learn more about Boundless: https://boundlessisrael.org/

Guest Bio:

Michal Cotler-Wunsh, LL.B, LL.M, is Israel’s Special Envoy for Combatting Antisemitism and a Senior Policy and Strategy Advisor. A former Member of Knesset, she chaired and served on several key parliamentary committees and was the first Knesset liaison to the International Criminal Court. She also co-founded the Inter-parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism.

Michal’s work focuses on antisemitism, international law, human rights, and Zionism. Her diverse legal, academic, and professional background includes roles with the Jewish Federations of North America, Nefesh B’Nefesh, and Reichman University in Herzliya. She also serves as a trustee of The Rabbi Sacks Legacy. Michal lives in Ra’anana, Israel, with her husband and four children.

Mentioned in this episode:

Working definition of antisemitism from the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA)


In a world of endless takes and heated debates, finding clarity on issues facing Israel, antisemitism, and American Jewish life can feel overwhelming. Boundless Insights-with Aviva Klompas cuts through the noise with thoughtful, in-depth conversations designed to empower rather than just inform. This isn't about surface-level opinions; it's about engaging with the complex perspectives and difficult questions that define these critical topics. Each episode of the podcast brings you closer to understanding the nuances often lost in broader commentary, fostering a space for genuine dialogue. You'll hear discussions that are as substantive as they are accessible, moving from historical context to contemporary challenges. The goal is to provide listeners with a trusted resource-a place to find not just information, but the tools for deeper reflection. Tune in for a podcast that values thoughtful exploration over easy answers, all aimed at making sense of a complicated landscape.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 152

Boundless Insights - with Aviva Klompas
Podcast Episodes
Is the Two-State Solution Still Viable? – with Dr. Michael Oren [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:32
For decades, the two-state solution has been the cornerstone of international efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This episode delves into its history, from its origins to repeated failed negotiations, a…
The Return of Donald Trump – with Dr. Michael Oren [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:48
Donald Trump is back in the Oval Office, and his second term has already focused on U.S.-Israel relations and Middle East diplomacy. In this episode, host Aviva Klompas is joined by Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli ambas…
The Return of the Hostages – with Dr. Michael Oren [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:07
In this episode, host Aviva Klompas delves into the agonizing uncertainty surrounding Israel’s long-awaited hostage deal with Hamas. Phase one of the agreement will see the release of 33 hostages—women, children, the eld…
The Return of Judicial Reform – with Dr. Michael Oren [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:39
Before October 7, judicial reform dominated Israel’s domestic agenda, sparking massive protests and fierce debates. Supporters of the plan argued reform was necessary to curb an unelected judiciary, while critics warned…
Wrapping Up 2024 & Welcoming 2025 – with Michael Rapaport [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:59
Aviva Klompas sits down with actor, comedian, and proud Jewish advocate Michael Rapaport for a special year-end episode. Known for his unapologetic commentary and passionate support for Israel, Michael brings his signatu…
Is a Hostage Deal in Sight? – with Dr. Michael Oren [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:51
In this episode of Boundless Insights, Aviva Klompas is joined by Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to the United States, to analyze the latest prospects for a hostage deal. The discussion delves into the likel…