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Knesset Advances Controversial Gender Segregation Bill in Higher Education

The Knesset has approved a proposed amendment to the Students Rights Law, allowing most higher education institutions in Israel to adopt gender segregation in their academic settings. The decision was announced by a spokesperson for the Knesset following an initial vote during a plenary session.

Amendment Overview

This amendment aims to revise the Student Rights Law of 2007, which currently stipulates that separate academic tracks for men and women based on religious grounds will not be deemed discriminatory. Following this vote, the bill will advance to the Knesset Committee, which will decide its next steps.

Proposal and Support

The proposal, introduced by MK Limor Son Har-Melech of the Otzma Yehudit party, garnered support from 55 Knesset members, with 45 opposed. Har-Melech argued that the existing framework of the Israeli higher education system fails to represent the diverse demographics of Israeli society, leading to the exclusion of certain groups from educational opportunities.

Aim of the Proposal

She contended that the intention behind the proposal is to enhance choices for students rather than impose limitations, aiming to make higher education more accessible to a broader segment of the population.

Opposition to the Bill

Conversely, the bill has encountered significant opposition, with critics asserting that it legitimizes segregation and discriminatory practices within Israeli society. MK Merav Ben-Ari from the Yesh Atid party described the legislation as reflective of broader political issues in Israel, arguing that it undermines judicial efforts to prevent gender-based segregation.

Concerns from Former Leaders

Additionally, former Labor Party leader MK Merav Michaeli expressed apprehension regarding the effects of gender segregation on educational and employment opportunities for the ultra-Orthodox community. She referenced evidence suggesting that such segregation does not effectively enhance education or employment outcomes.

Legislation’s Broader Implications

Michaeli characterized the legislation as part of a governmental agenda that seeks to limit women’s roles and opportunities in society, asserting that this trend indicates an increasing discrimination against women in various domains.

Source: Israel News, The Jerusalem Post.

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