Segregation in Israel: Separate Streets for Men and Women?

Segregation in Israel: Separate Streets for Men and Women?

Segregation in Israel – A quick glance at Shlomo HaMelech Street in Bnei Brak, a city of roughly 200,000 residents known for its ultra-Orthodox Jewish community, reveals no immediate signs of the controversy brewing there. The narrow asphalt road, surrounded by residential buildings, is lined with men in traditional Orthodox attire and a few women. Yet, beneath this quiet scene lies a heated debate over the freedom of movement for pedestrians.

Bnei Brak’s Gender-Segregated Sidewalk Initiative

Local authorities had initially planned to widen sidewalks, install barriers, and place signs to physically separate male and female walkers. This would have made Bnei Brak the first Israeli city to implement gender-segregated public spaces. However, the project faced backlash, leading to the removal of already installed signs and a pause in the initiative.

“The city administrators have since backtracked,” reports Israeli media. “They say they will rearrange the streets temporarily during large events.”

Conservative Religious Influence on Society

More conservative religious groups are gaining traction, raising concerns among less traditional Israelis. Fears exist that Bnei Brak’s move could establish a precedent, empowering Orthodox hard-liners in shaping societal norms. This is particularly significant as the country approaches its upcoming elections.

Religious Foundations of Segregation

Gender separation is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. Orthodox synagogues have distinct male and female areas, and conservative practitioners often avoid physical contact with the opposite sex, even in greetings. This extends to events like weddings and holidays, where men and women traditionally occupy separate spaces. The proposed street segregation in Bnei Brak stems from this cultural practice, aiming to ensure gender separation at wedding venues.

Supreme Court’s Previous Rulings

Despite its religious origins, the segregation of public spaces has faced legal challenges. In 2011, the Supreme Court ruled that mandatory gender separation on public buses—regardless of the neighborhood served—was unconstitutional. A similar case in 2017 saw the court order the removal of “decency signs” that enforced female dress codes and restricted movement near religious schools. However, religious extremists often reinstated these signs, prompting ongoing tensions.

“A 2011 ruling said there could be no mandatory segregation on public buses,” noted judicial decisions. “And there must be no pressure on women to sit at the back.”

Knesset’s New Law and Academic Concerns

The debate over gender segregation has expanded beyond city streets. On Thursday, the Knesset passed a law allowing universities to offer segregated master’s and doctoral programs. This follows existing rules for bachelor’s degrees, aiming to integrate Orthodox students into higher education and provide opportunities for conservative women. Yet, critics argue the measure could compromise academic standards, especially in fields like medicine, where specialization is key.

Universities expressed apprehension before the vote, fearing the law might create barriers for women in accessing advanced careers. While the law emphasizes voluntary application, its potential to normalize segregation in broader societal contexts remains a point of contention.