Translator, educator, lecturer, chairwoman of Israel's Yamin Israel political party.
Born in Kiev, USSR. Raised in Novosibirsk, Siberia. Studied history and foreign languages at the State University of Tomsk and the Pedagogical Institute of Novosibirsk. Holds M. A. in teaching English and Russian-English translation.
In late 60-ies through early 70-ies participated in the underground circle disseminating anti-Soviet literature. Was persecuted by the KGB for this activity. In 1971 became active in the Jewish emigration circles. In 1972 applied for an exit permit to Israel, along with her parents and her only sister. In 1972, following a period of struggle, managed to emigrate alone, while the rest of the family was denied the exit permits. The following years of Shifrin's life were completely dedicated to the struggle to save her family. After eight years of ceaseless persecution the family fell victims of the KGB.
Since 1973 Eleonora Shifrin participated in the struggle for Sen. Jackson's amendment and up until the fall of the USSR in other activities aimed at obtaining freedom of emigration for Soviet Jewry.
Since 1989 has been active in the absorption of newcomers from the former USSR to Israel.
In 1974 married Avraham Shifrin, a former political prisoner of Soviet concentration camps, and together with him founded the Research Center for Soviet Prisons, psychiatric Prisons and Forced-Labor Concentration Camps. For the following 25 years participated in the Center's various projects investigating Soviet penitentiary system. Lectured throughout the United States and Europe on various subjects connected with the USSR and Israel. Made several lecture tours of the USA. Published numerous articles in Israel's Russian-language periodic magazines and newspapers.
Joined Yamin Israel at its founding in 1995, created and headed its Russian-language section. Has edited the party publications ever since. Was on the party's list in the 1996 Knesset election. In 1997 became de facto and in 1999, de jure, chairlady of the Yamin Israel. Has been lecturing extensively for Russian, English and Hebrew speaking audiences throughout Israel.
Lives in Jerusalem's Ramot area, where she is a member of the local council.