War and Politics Lead to Deterioration of Women’s Rights in Israel

In 2023, Israel experienced significant setbacks in women’s rights, compounded by the ongoing war with Hamas and governmental changes. The recently established Ministry for the Advancement of Women’s Status was shut down as part of budgetary adjustments aimed at offsetting war costs. This closure, reflective of broader governmental priorities, has been a blow to gender equality efforts. The Gender Index report from WIPS at the Van Leer Jerusalem Institute indicates a rise in gender-based violence and a decline in women’s roles in decision-making, both in government and the military. The dissolution of the ministry, viewed by some as a mere political gesture, highlights the challenges facing women in Israel. Experts, including Hadass Ben Eliyahu and Anat Thon-Ashkenazy, advocate for the critical need of an independent authority dedicated to women’s rights and gender equality. They stress the importance of professional and effective management in tackling these issues, especially in light of the war’s exacerbating impact on gender violence and inequality. Keren Setton’s article for The Media Line provides an in-depth look at these developments, examining the intricate relationship between war, politics, and the status of women in Israeli society. Readers seeking to understand the complexities and ramifications of these issues can find the full story on The Media Line’s website.