Women’s Rights Backslide in Israel as Netanyahu’s Far-Right Policies Expand

Women’s rights in Israel are facing what advocates describe as a serious and accelerating decline, with activists and legal experts blaming the policies of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right coalition government for rolling back decades of progress.

Human rights groups report growing concerns over gender segregation, weakened protections against gender-based violence, and increased influence of ultra-Orthodox and nationalist parties in shaping legislation. Proposed and enacted measures have reportedly limited women’s participation in public life, particularly in areas such as public transportation, education, and government-funded institutions.

Advocates also point to attempts to weaken the judiciary, arguing that an independent court system has historically served as a crucial safeguard for women’s rights. Feminist organizations say legal reforms pushed by the government could make it harder to challenge discriminatory practices, particularly those justified on religious grounds.

The situation has been compounded by the ongoing war and national security crisis, which activists say has pushed women’s rights lower on the political agenda. Reports indicate rising domestic violence cases during the conflict, while funding for support services has failed to keep pace with demand.

Government officials reject claims of systemic discrimination, arguing that reforms are necessary to reflect Israel’s religious and cultural diversity. However, women’s rights groups warn that the current trajectory threatens gender equality and could have long-term consequences for women’s safety, representation, and legal protection.