22. In relation to reports of Arab NGOs in Israel facing more challenges than other NGOs, it can be recalled that the Economic and Social Council, in its concluding observations on the second periodic report of Israel to the Council in May 2003, reiterated its concern that &quot; the excessive emphasis upon the State as a `Jewish State &apos; encourages discrimination and accords a second-class status to its non-Jewish citizens &quot; .
22. In relation to reports of Arab NGOs in Israel facing more challenges than other NGOs, it can be recalled that the Economic and Social Council, in its concluding observations on the second periodic report of Israel to the Council in May 2003, reiterated its concern that &quot; the excessive emphasis upon the State as a `Jewish State &apos; encourages discrimination and accords a second-class status to its non-Jewish citizens &quot; .