Ilana Cohen (1943 – 2026)
Written and published by the SouleMap editorial team. Published June 22, 2026. This tribute was not created by the family. Are you a family member? Claim this memorial.
In loving memory of Ilana Cohen. Born November 16, 1943. Passed away June 21, 2026.
Their Story
Ilana Cohen was an influential figure in Israeli public service who devoted her career to both healthcare and democratic representation. Born in Iraq in 1943, she immigrated to Israel at age five and built a distinguished career as a nurse and passionate advocate for healthcare workers. For decades, she championed the rights and well-being of Israeli nurses, serving as chair of the Nurses' Union from the early 1990s until 2024. Her dedication to workers' welfare extended into electoral politics when she was elected to the Knesset in 2003 on the One Nation list, which subsequently merged with the Labor Party. During her three years as a member of parliament from 2003 to 2006, she brought the perspectives of healthcare professionals to legislative debates. After retiring from politics in 2006, Cohen continued her leadership role in the nursing profession, remaining at the helm of the union through multiple strikes and labor negotiations that sought to address chronic staffing shortages and protect healthcare workers from workplace violence. Her legacy reflects a lifetime commitment to improving conditions for those who care for Israel's citizens.
Sources
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