Updates from channel Coalition and Religion on Hiddush website https://hiddush.org/subchannel-55-0-Coalition_and_Religion.aspx This is an RSS update from channel Coalition and Religion on Hiddush website Wed, 29 Apr 2026 21:05:35 GMT He-il Between Freedom and Independence https://hiddush.org/article-23617-0-Between_Freedom_and_Independence.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23617-0-Between_Freedom_and_Independence.aspx Sun, 23 Apr 2023 08:30:00 GMT

We have just concluded the celebration of Passover, the Festival of Freedom, and next week we will celebrate Israeli Independence Day. Both holidays have an added special meaning this year. The festival of freedom reminds us that freedom is not granted without a struggle, and Independence Day heightens our awareness that independence gained by blood 75 years ago is likewise not to be taken for granted nor guaranteed forever.

“Who is a Jew” is Back! https://hiddush.org/article-23586-0-“Who_is_a_Jew”_is_Back.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23586-0-“Who_is_a_Jew”_is_Back.aspx Thu, 01 Dec 2022 22:10:00 GMT In recent days, there have been reports in the media from the coalition negotiation rooms that the Likud has accepted the demand of the ultra-Orthodox parties to change the law in a way that will prevent those who converted in Israel outside the Chief Rabbinate from receiving recognition as Jews, even at the civil level. This is not only a change to a long-standing ruling recognizing Reform and Conservative conversions in Israel, but also a step that is directed against Modern Orthodox conversions from the past few years, which are aimed at facilitating conversions of immigrants from the former Soviet Union. Israel’s Supreme Court Under Threat https://hiddush.org/article-23574-0-Israel’s_Supreme_Court_Under_Threat_.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23574-0-Israel’s_Supreme_Court_Under_Threat_.aspx Thu, 08 Sep 2022 18:15:00 GMT The future of Israel’s Judiciary, its independence and authority, and the rule of law have been threatened for some time, and are especially challenged at the present time, as Israel prepares for its fifth round of elections in the last three years. Where Does the Israeli Public Stand? https://hiddush.org/article-23573-0-Where_Does_the_Israeli_Public_Stand.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23573-0-Where_Does_the_Israeli_Public_Stand.aspx Thu, 18 Aug 2022 22:26:00 GMT Where does the Jewish Israeli public stand on the controversial issues of religion and state? We will soon publish Hiddush’s annual Religion and State Index, which provides a comprehensive overview of the many topics included in this broad category. But in the meantime, we conducted a survey more limited in scope, on two key questions that are on the public and political agenda. The Elephant politicians aren't talking about https://hiddush.org/article-23571-0-The_Elephant_politicians_arent_talking_about.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23571-0-The_Elephant_politicians_arent_talking_about.aspx Mon, 01 Aug 2022 21:20:00 GMT It has now become increasingly apparent that that whoever is going to serve as Israel's next prime minister aspires to include the Haredi parties in his Coalition. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any lower… https://hiddush.org/article-23535-0-Just_when_you_thought_it_couldn’t_get_any_lower….aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23535-0-Just_when_you_thought_it_couldn’t_get_any_lower….aspx Thu, 06 Jan 2022 10:22:00 GMT Since Hiddush last newsletter, Israel was exposed to two new records in rudeness and hatefulness of expressions by Knesset members’, one from the Chairman of the Agudat Israel faction, Former Minister MK Rabbi Yaakov Litzman, and his colleague MK Rabbi Moshe Abutbul of Shas. The other was on the part of former Minister MK David Amsalem [Likud]. Litzman's statement from the Knesset podium was an expression of the growing frustration of the ultra-Orthodox leadership with the Government's policies and the presence and influence of MK Rabbi Gilad Kariv, Chairman of the Constitution, Law and Justice Committee. Religion, State, and the New Government https://hiddush.org/article-23497-0-Religion_State_and_the_New_Government.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23497-0-Religion_State_and_the_New_Government.aspx Wed, 16 Jun 2021 22:39:00 GMT Writing about this subject raises the known question as to what we should be looking at: the half-full cup, or the half-empty cup? 59% of Israeli public opposes ultra-Orthodox parties in coalition https://hiddush.org/article-23494-0-59_of_Israeli_public_opposes_ultraOrthodox_parties_in_coalition.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23494-0-59_of_Israeli_public_opposes_ultraOrthodox_parties_in_coalition.aspx Tue, 01 Jun 2021 18:59:00 GMT Against the background of the “change government” that is taking shape and news regarding Bennet and Lapid hoping to add the ultra-Orthodox to their coalition, the question as to whether the ultra-Orthodox parties should be included in the coalition arises again. Beware of fighting words! https://hiddush.org/article-23486-0-Beware_of_fighting_words.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23486-0-Beware_of_fighting_words.aspx Wed, 21 Apr 2021 22:48:00 GMT A group of Christian leading clergy recently published a proclamation, calling upon the leaders of the Democratic Party to “be careful about appointing Jewish politicians to the Biden Administration, for they have nationalistic Jewish loyalty and affinity for the State of Israel.” The elections and the Jewish-Arab and secular-Haredi tensions https://hiddush.org/article-23483-0-The_elections_and_the_JewishArab_and_secularHaredi_tensions.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23483-0-The_elections_and_the_JewishArab_and_secularHaredi_tensions.aspx Wed, 07 Apr 2021 22:28:00 GMT A survey conducted by the Israel Democracy Institute several days after the election revealed the depth of dissatisfaction of the majority of the Israeli public with the election results. Two-thirds of the public is dissatisfied with the results [including the majority of Jewish voters for the right, left and center parties] and 80% believe that Israel is facing its fifth round of elections in the coming year. What's at the heart of the current election campaign? https://hiddush.org/article-23470-0-Whats_at_the_heart_of_the_current_election_campaign.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23470-0-Whats_at_the_heart_of_the_current_election_campaign.aspx Wed, 17 Feb 2021 22:06:00 GMT All the relevant political players understand that issues of religion and state are at the heart of the election battle and will be key elements in the negotiations that will be undertaken following the elections. Update on COVID-19 and religion https://hiddush.org/article-23462-0-Update_on_COVID19_and_religion.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23462-0-Update_on_COVID19_and_religion.aspx Thu, 07 Jan 2021 18:00:00 GMT There is almost no news broadcast on radio or television these days on the COVID-19 pandemic that does not mention the ultra-Orthodox issue. Taking the battle into 2021 https://hiddush.org/article-23460-0-Taking_the_battle_into_2021.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23460-0-Taking_the_battle_into_2021.aspx Thu, 24 Dec 2020 17:39:00 GMT Your support for Hiddush’s work is especially important to enable us to maximize the exposure of the battle for freedom of religion and equality of civic burden and to emphasize their implications for the future of the state and the Jewish people. The Israeli government's ploy to prevent marriages through consulates https://hiddush.org/article-23448-0-The_Israeli_governments_ploy_to_prevent_marriages_through_consulates.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23448-0-The_Israeli_governments_ploy_to_prevent_marriages_through_consulates.aspx Mon, 09 Nov 2020 21:27:00 GMT Hiddush would certainly welcome the opening of another narrow window to marriage in the form of removing the barrier to recognizing consular marriages. However, the real solution is, of course, for Israel to join the rest of the world’s Western democracies, which all recognize the right of their citizens to marry as they wish. Should ultra-Orthodox sector determine Israel's pandemic response? https://hiddush.org/article-23444-0-Should_ultraOrthodox_sector_determine_Israels_pandemic_response.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23444-0-Should_ultraOrthodox_sector_determine_Israels_pandemic_response.aspx Thu, 15 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT In Israel, response to COVID-19 pandemic is largely dictated by the fragile political reality and the extraordinary weight of the ultra-Orthodox political parties. Hiddush to petition Supreme Court if yeshivas open before state schools https://hiddush.org/article-23443-0-Hiddush_to_petition_Supreme_Court_if_yeshivas_open_before_state_schools.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23443-0-Hiddush_to_petition_Supreme_Court_if_yeshivas_open_before_state_schools.aspx Thu, 15 Oct 2020 06:00:00 GMT Hiddush to Corona Cabinet and the other relevant authorities: We will appeal to the Supreme Court if you make an exception for ultra-Orthodox education and permit gender discrimination. Minister Yankelevich, what about religious freedom for Israelis? https://hiddush.org/article-23436-0-Minister_Yankelevich_what_about_religious_freedom_for_Israelis.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23436-0-Minister_Yankelevich_what_about_religious_freedom_for_Israelis.aspx Thu, 27 Aug 2020 09:53:00 GMT Speaking about the growing efforts at restricting kosher slaughter and circumcision rites in Europe, as well as litigation initiated at the European Court of Justice in Luxemburg, brought by Orthodox leadership to challenge the legality of such restrictive legislation, Minister Yankelevich spoke last week at the Knesset. High Court override bill swatted down in Knesset - why? https://hiddush.org/article-23429-0-High_Court_override_bill_swatted_down_in_Knesset__why.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23429-0-High_Court_override_bill_swatted_down_in_Knesset__why.aspx Wed, 05 Aug 2020 14:15:00 GMT Lawmakers overwhelmingly voted down a bill Wednesday that would have limited the High Court of Justice’s power to strike down laws, after MKs from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party abstained from voting on the opposition measure. The Imminent Political/Legal Explosion https://hiddush.org/article-23408-0-The_Imminent_PoliticalLegal_Explosion.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23408-0-The_Imminent_PoliticalLegal_Explosion.aspx Thu, 04 Jun 2020 22:35:00 GMT The ultra-Orthodox parties have pushed hard on the Prime Minister in their coalition negotiations. The amendment to the Draft Law is the only issue of religion and state relations that is spelled out in detail, not only in the agreements of the ultra-Orthodox parties with the Likud, but also in the Likud's agreement with Blue & White. A coalition that will escalate Jewish disunity https://hiddush.org/article-23404-0-A_coalition_that_will_escalate_Jewish_disunity.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23404-0-A_coalition_that_will_escalate_Jewish_disunity.aspx Mon, 18 May 2020 19:34:00 GMT Netanyahu, Gantz and their partners know that this ongoing surrender to the ultra-Orthodox parties is in complete betrayal of the Israeli public’s will, including that of their own voters. The State of Israel is but a Co-op Board https://hiddush.org/article-23400-0-The_State_of_Israel_is_but_a_Coop_Board.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23400-0-The_State_of_Israel_is_but_a_Coop_Board.aspx Thu, 07 May 2020 18:55:00 GMT Reading the Ultra-Orthodox print and online media one would not have realized that Israel has just marked its most important national holiday, Yom Ha’Atzmaut (Day of Independence) and its only two official memorial days: Yom Hashoah and Yom Hazikaron. Religion and state under Netanyahu's new government https://hiddush.org/article-23403-0-Religion_and_state_under_Netanyahus_new_government.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23403-0-Religion_and_state_under_Netanyahus_new_government.aspx Thu, 07 May 2020 16:19:00 GMT This week, the Supreme Court unanimously rejected all of the petitions against Benjamin Netanyahu's continued tenure as prime minister due to the pending criminal charges against him, as well as those against the coalition agreement between the Likud and Blue & White. Emergency government and national unity? https://hiddush.org/article-23399-0-Emergency_government_and_national_unity.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23399-0-Emergency_government_and_national_unity.aspx Fri, 24 Apr 2020 01:04:00 GMT On the eve of Holocaust Memorial Day, April 20, a coalition agreement “for the establishment of an emergency and national unity government” was signed between the Likud and Blue & White. We at Hiddush focus on matters of religion and state and the implications of the agreement on the challenges of freedom of religion and equality of civic burden. Who doesn't recognize Holocaust Memorial Day? https://hiddush.org/article-23398-0-Who_doesnt_recognize_Holocaust_Memorial_Day.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23398-0-Who_doesnt_recognize_Holocaust_Memorial_Day.aspx Thu, 23 Apr 2020 22:20:00 GMT It is difficult not to think about Israel’s religion and state conflict in the context of MK Mansour Abbas’s words on Holocaust Memorial Day. Unlike MK Abbas's impressive remarks, much of the ultra-Orthodox media did not address Holocaust Day, for its leaders refuse to recognize the date set by the Knesset to mark Israel’s memorial days. What to expect of a Gantz-Netanyahu government https://hiddush.org/article-23397-0-What_to_expect_of_a_GantzNetanyahu_government.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23397-0-What_to_expect_of_a_GantzNetanyahu_government.aspx Thu, 26 Mar 2020 18:26:00 GMT Hiddush's response to the tremendous and impactful political upheaval that is taking place in Israel right now, with Benny Gantz agreeing to join a government led by Bibi Netanyahu. Israeli elections: insights and lessons https://hiddush.org/article-23393-0-Israeli_elections_insights_and_lessons.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23393-0-Israeli_elections_insights_and_lessons.aspx Thu, 05 Mar 2020 22:10:00 GMT Hiddush is non-partisan, and it does not take a stand regarding the political clash between the left- and right-wing, and we refrain from endorsing political parties or discouraging people from voting for any particular party. Our focus is solely on the pursuit of religious freedom and equality. With that in mind, some preliminary observations are important as we assess the significance and causes of the election outcome. Political parties’ commitment to religious freedom will help at polls https://hiddush.org/article-23384-0-Political_parties’_commitment_to_religious_freedom_will_help_at_polls.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23384-0-Political_parties’_commitment_to_religious_freedom_will_help_at_polls.aspx Wed, 19 Feb 2020 11:23:00 GMT The formula for success in Israel’s March ’20 elections: Declare your party’s commitment to the fight for religious freedom & equality. 54% of the Israeli Jewish public responded that such a commitment by the parties running for election would increase the likelihood of their voting for those parties. Israel is headed for its 3rd election in a year! https://hiddush.org/article-23368-0-Israel_is_headed_for_its_3rd_election_in_a_year.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23368-0-Israel_is_headed_for_its_3rd_election_in_a_year.aspx Thu, 12 Dec 2019 16:59:00 GMT We don’t have a crystal ball, and we don’t know what the future holds in store. However, when we examine what has transpired in recent months, and in spite of the fact that the election results in September were comparable to those in April, the pictures following these two rounds were substantially different. This may point to a potential breakthrough in the third round. Where are Israeli Jews now on Religion & State? https://hiddush.org/article-23366-0-Where_are_Israeli_Jews_now_on_Religion__State.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23366-0-Where_are_Israeli_Jews_now_on_Religion__State.aspx Thu, 12 Dec 2019 16:15:00 GMT The “Status Quo” is an affront to the will of the public: 63% want a civil unity government; 71% support public transportation on the Sabbath; 69% support establishing civil marriage and divorce in Israel 63% of Israeli public wants a civil unity government https://hiddush.org/article-23364-0-63_of_Israeli_public_wants_a_civil_unity_government.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23364-0-63_of_Israeli_public_wants_a_civil_unity_government.aspx Tue, 03 Dec 2019 10:14:00 GMT The public’s position remains stable and very, very clear: 63% of Israel’s adult Jewish public wants a civil unity government, which will promote religious freedom and equality, and which will not be dependent upon the religious parties, nor submit to their demands on issues of religion and state. Israeli Elections, Religion, State and American Jewry https://hiddush.org/article-23341-0-Israeli_Elections_Religion_State_and_American_Jewry.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23341-0-Israeli_Elections_Religion_State_and_American_Jewry.aspx Thu, 12 Sep 2019 08:44:00 GMT Israel has never experienced a similar opportunity to end the decades-old fundamentalist Orthodox hold over its religious Jewish life. Israel's Religion and State conflict in the September elections https://hiddush.org/article-23331-0-Israels_Religion_and_State_conflict_in_the_September_elections.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23331-0-Israels_Religion_and_State_conflict_in_the_September_elections.aspx Thu, 18 Jul 2019 16:00:00 GMT The unfolding election campaigning provides further validation to Hiddush's contention as to the major role that the clash of religion-&-state can potentially play if properly positioned in shaping Israel's future political trajectory. Avigdor Lieberman (whose political focus on "anti-halakha state" we've described in detail) continues to reap the gains. 60% of Israel’s adult Jewish public wants national unity government https://hiddush.org/article-23327-0-60_of_Israel’s_adult_Jewish_public_wants_national_unity_government_.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23327-0-60_of_Israel’s_adult_Jewish_public_wants_national_unity_government_.aspx Wed, 10 Jul 2019 17:16:00 GMT 60% of Israel’s adult Jewish public supports Avigdor Lieberman's intention to establish a broad national unity government without the ultra-Orthodox parties, including 94% of blue and white voters. 53% of Israel's adult Jewish public may decide who to vote for on the basis of the party’s commitment to promote religious freedom and equality of the burden. Dramatic developments on Israel's political scene https://hiddush.org/article-23323-0-Dramatic_developments_on_Israels_political_scene.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23323-0-Dramatic_developments_on_Israels_political_scene.aspx Thu, 20 Jun 2019 15:48:00 GMT Dramatic developments following the elections have validated Hiddush's pre- and post-election analysis, although it is not entirely clear yet whether the necessary lessons will be drawn by all. 74% Israeli public prefers civil government coalition https://hiddush.org/article-23322-0-74_Israeli_public_prefers_civil_government_coalition.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23322-0-74_Israeli_public_prefers_civil_government_coalition.aspx Wed, 12 Jun 2019 09:19:00 GMT 74% of the Israeli public prefers a civil government based on a partnership between Likud and the Blue-&-White party, independent of the ultra-Orthodox parties’ dictates. 68% of the Israeli public wants the party it votes for to fight for the advancement of religious freedom and equality of the civic burden. Shoresh Institution policy brief: post-election analysis https://hiddush.org/article-23316-0-Shoresh_Institution_policy_brief_postelection_analysis.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23316-0-Shoresh_Institution_policy_brief_postelection_analysis.aspx Thu, 09 May 2019 20:05:00 GMT Last week, Prof. Ben David published a policy brief titled 'Two Wars and Demography: A Long Run View of Israel’s Recent Elections'. Its importance cannot be over-exaggerated. We can only express the hope that leaders and policymakers will take the time to study it carefully. Perpetual surrender to anti-Zionistic, anti-democratic religious ideology https://hiddush.org/article-23317-0-Perpetual_surrender_to_antiZionistic_antidemocratic_religious_ideology.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23317-0-Perpetual_surrender_to_antiZionistic_antidemocratic_religious_ideology.aspx Tue, 07 May 2019 21:40:00 GMT It is clear that a key building block in the demands of both the Haredi parties and the Union of right-wing parties is the ensuring that the non-Orthodox movements be excluded and delegitimized Most Israelis prefer a unity gov't with Likud and Blue & White https://hiddush.org/article-23315-0-Most_Israelis_prefer_a_unity_govt_with_Likud_and_Blue__White.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23315-0-Most_Israelis_prefer_a_unity_govt_with_Likud_and_Blue__White.aspx Mon, 22 Apr 2019 22:21:00 GMT 66% of the public prefers a Likud-Blue-&-White coalition to promote freedom of religion and equality, rather than a narrow government dependent on the ultra-Orthodox. Religious Freedom and Equality after the Elections https://hiddush.org/article-23314-0-Religious_Freedom_and_Equality_after_the_Elections.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23314-0-Religious_Freedom_and_Equality_after_the_Elections.aspx Thu, 11 Apr 2019 19:29:00 GMT The 2019 Knesset elections are over, but not much has been written about their potential impact on matters of religion & state and Israel-Diaspora relations. Hiddush polling shows that approximately 2/3 of Israeli Jews would prefer a civil government that does not depend upon the ultra-Orthodox parties. An increase in Haredi MKs – not in public support. https://hiddush.org/article-23313-0-An_increase_in_Haredi_MKs_–_not_in_public_support.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23313-0-An_increase_in_Haredi_MKs_–_not_in_public_support.aspx Thu, 11 Apr 2019 18:45:00 GMT Hiddush provides context and more accurate understanding of what may appear to onlookers from the Diaspora as growing support for the ultra-Orthodox political parties due to the increase from 13 to 16. 65% Israelis want a civil government https://hiddush.org/article-23305-0-65_Israelis_want_a_civil_government.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23305-0-65_Israelis_want_a_civil_government.aspx Fri, 22 Mar 2019 08:49:00 GMT 65% of the adult Jewish public wants a civil government, which is not dependent on the ultra-Orthodox parties, and which could promote freedom of religion and equality of the civic burden. 63% want a civil Coalition without Haredi parties https://hiddush.org/article-23302-0-63_want_a_civil_Coalition_without_Haredi_parties.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23302-0-63_want_a_civil_Coalition_without_Haredi_parties.aspx Thu, 21 Feb 2019 13:49:00 GMT After the drama and the clarification of the political map, the public expects to hear more than rhetoric from the right and the left. The Jewish public wants the parties to promote freedom of religion and equality of the burden - not just crumbs such as providing public transportation on the Sabbath. 52% more likely to vote for a party that commits to religious freedom https://hiddush.org/article-23301-0-52_more_likely_to_vote_for_a_party_that_commits_to_religious_freedom.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23301-0-52_more_likely_to_vote_for_a_party_that_commits_to_religious_freedom.aspx Thu, 31 Jan 2019 21:39:00 GMT 64% of undecided voters said that they are more likely to vote for a party that will commit itself to promoting freedom of religion and equality of civic burden. So too, 52% of the adult Jewish public. 'Liberals in the Likud' faction favors religious freedom https://hiddush.org/article-23281-0-Liberals_in_the_Likud_faction_favors_religious_freedom.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23281-0-Liberals_in_the_Likud_faction_favors_religious_freedom.aspx Thu, 20 Sep 2018 17:47:00 GMT The national radio reported today on a gathering of the "Liberals in the Likud" who were addressed by Minister Ofer Akunis (Likud). He was recorded stating the following: "The Surrogacy Law that distinguished between men and women is a disgrace... to the National [Likud] Movement 2018 Israel Religion & State Index https://hiddush.org/article-23276-0-2018_Israel_Religion__State_Index.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23276-0-2018_Israel_Religion__State_Index.aspx Wed, 05 Sep 2018 11:11:00 GMT As in previous years, as Rosh HaShanah approaches, Hiddush is proud to publish its annual Israel Religion & State Index, now in its tenth year. 84% want to enshrine the principle of equality into a Constitutional Law https://hiddush.org/article-23270-0-84_want_to_enshrine_the_principle_of_equality_into_a_Constitutional_Law.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23270-0-84_want_to_enshrine_the_principle_of_equality_into_a_Constitutional_Law.aspx Thu, 16 Aug 2018 16:50:00 GMT Contrary to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s refusal – 84% of the public wants to anchor the principle of equality into a Constitutional Law. Also: parties that herald giving the Declaration of Independence constitutional force would receive additional public support. Netanyahu about-faces on gay surrogacy rights https://hiddush.org/article-23257-0-Netanyahu_aboutfaces_on_gay_surrogacy_rights.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23257-0-Netanyahu_aboutfaces_on_gay_surrogacy_rights.aspx Thu, 19 Jul 2018 06:56:00 GMT The surrogacy bill, enacted by a vote of 59 to 52, expands eligibility for state-supported surrogacy to include single women but excludes single men and gay couples. Until now the right has only been extended to married, heterosexual couples. Likud Minister fed up with Haredi ultimatums https://hiddush.org/article-23244-0-Likud_Minister_fed_up_with_Haredi_ultimatums.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23244-0-Likud_Minister_fed_up_with_Haredi_ultimatums.aspx Wed, 23 May 2018 11:28:00 GMT Our readers have come to expect Hiddush underscoring the unacceptability of ultra-Orthodox political shenanigans, extortion and coercion. However, this week, we heard comparable sentiments expressed by a leading Government Coalition member - Likud Minister Akunis. Politicians attempt to castrate the Supreme Court https://hiddush.org/article-23231-0-Politicians_attempt_to_castrate_the_Supreme_Court.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23231-0-Politicians_attempt_to_castrate_the_Supreme_Court.aspx Sun, 06 May 2018 08:31:00 GMT The Israeli public trusts the Supreme Court, not Israel's politicians, according to a survey recently commissioned by Hiddush, in light of politicians' recent attempt to castrate the High Court of Justice, in order to prevent the Court from mandating that the State of Israel enlist yeshiva students and to allow the Government Coalition to enact additional discriminatory laws according to the ultra-Orthodox parties' demands without fear of these being ruled illegal by the High Court of Justice. 79% Israelis oppose laws to legalize draft dodging by yeshiva students https://hiddush.org/article-23216-0-79_Israelis_oppose_laws_to_legalize_draft_dodging_by_yeshiva_students.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23216-0-79_Israelis_oppose_laws_to_legalize_draft_dodging_by_yeshiva_students.aspx Mon, 05 Mar 2018 11:06:00 GMT A new survey reveals how strongly the Israeli public is opposed to the demand of the ultra-Orthodox parties to pass a new 'Basic Law: Torah study', as well as an amendment to the Defense Service Law to legalize the continued draft dodging of most yeshiva students. Nearing the point of explosion! https://hiddush.org/article-23214-0-Nearing_the_point_of_explosion_.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23214-0-Nearing_the_point_of_explosion_.aspx Thu, 01 Mar 2018 18:36:00 GMT "The storm is rising," I wrote recently. Now, I can definitely say that the situation is nearing the point of explosion! Also, this time, it is clear that the religion-state clash is an integral part of the approaching explosion. The storm is rising https://hiddush.org/article-23208-0-The_storm_is_rising.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23208-0-The_storm_is_rising.aspx Thu, 15 Feb 2018 19:52:00 GMT It seems that matters of ethics and the moral, appropriate behavior of Israel’s political leadership (in which the ancient prophets of Israel showed great interest), don't interest the Haredi parties, nor require taking a stand from the perspective of the leaders of parties that claim to represent authentic Judaism. New polling reaffirms Hiddush finding. https://hiddush.org/article-23207-0-New_polling_reaffirms_Hiddush_finding_.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-23207-0-New_polling_reaffirms_Hiddush_finding_.aspx Thu, 08 Feb 2018 11:11:00 GMT The January 2018 issue of the monthly Peace Index, published jointly by Tel Aviv University and the Israel Democracy Institute, touches upon key confrontation points along the spectrum of religion-state issues on the public's and political class's minds at this time. Deputy Minister Hotovely: pluralistic Judaism "emptied Judaism of content" https://hiddush.org/article-22153-0-Deputy_Minister_Hotovely_pluralistic_Judaism_emptied_Judaism_of_content.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-22153-0-Deputy_Minister_Hotovely_pluralistic_Judaism_emptied_Judaism_of_content.aspx Wed, 08 Nov 2017 13:46:00 GMT At a conference of the American-Israeli community in Washington, the Deputy Foreign Minister said that non-Orthodox Judaism is not accepted in Israel. Director of the Reform movement: "Hotovely joins the wild campaign of incitement that has been going on in recent months against Reform Judaism." What they say about non-Orthodox Jews https://hiddush.org/article-22140-0-What_they_say_about_nonOrthodox_Jews.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-22140-0-What_they_say_about_nonOrthodox_Jews.aspx Sat, 30 Sep 2017 19:16:00 GMT Netanyahu told reporters in New York that the Reform and Conservative movements wanted to get recognition “via the backdoor, secretly, under the pretext of a technical clause of joint administration of the Western Wall.” Netanyahu taps ex-justice minister to review conversion policy https://hiddush.org/article-19132-0-Netanyahu_taps_exjustice_minister_to_review_conversion_policy.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-19132-0-Netanyahu_taps_exjustice_minister_to_review_conversion_policy.aspx Thu, 17 Aug 2017 12:27:00 GMT Moshe Nissim, 82, a former chief rabbi’s son, will work to ensure ‘Jewish unity’ in studying controversial bill Labor Party Chairman: Accept Reform Conversions! https://hiddush.org/article-17131-0-Labor_Party_Chairman_Accept_Reform_Conversions.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-17131-0-Labor_Party_Chairman_Accept_Reform_Conversions.aspx Wed, 26 Jul 2017 21:05:00 GMT Newly elected Labor Party Chairman Avi Gabbay has come out strongly in favor of religious freedom on issues ranging from education, to public transportation on Shabbat, and to marriage & divorce. More recently, he's expressed support for the official state recognition of Reform conversions. Supreme Court: Tel Aviv mini-markets may operate on Shabbat https://hiddush.org/article-17088-0-Supreme_Court_Tel_Aviv_minimarkets_may_operate_on_Shabbat.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-17088-0-Supreme_Court_Tel_Aviv_minimarkets_may_operate_on_Shabbat.aspx Thu, 20 Apr 2017 12:30:00 GMT Israel's High Court of Justice ruled on Wednesday in favor of Tel Aviv’s battle to expand facilities open to the secular public on Shabbat, saying that the municipality can permit mini-markets to operate on the Jewish day of rest. US Reform leadership meets with PM Netanyahu https://hiddush.org/article-17064-0-US_Reform_leadership_meets_with_PM_Netanyahu.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-17064-0-US_Reform_leadership_meets_with_PM_Netanyahu.aspx Wed, 15 Mar 2017 01:24:00 GMT The Prime Minister must either stop the incitement against non-Orthodox Judaism from within his own government or sever his political alliance with those who wage war against world Jewry and block Netanyhu's own public commitment to ensure that all Jews feel at home in Israel. Stepping up Hiddush's legal advocacy https://hiddush.org/article-17052-0-Stepping_up_Hiddushs_legal_advocacy.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-17052-0-Stepping_up_Hiddushs_legal_advocacy.aspx Thu, 09 Feb 2017 22:29:00 GMT With key governmental ministries controlled by the ultra-Orthodox and Zionist Orthodox parties, and with these elements in the Coalition dictating their wills to the Government even beyond the sphere of their ministerial portfolios, there is a growing need for legal advocacy work to challenge inequity and illegal practices (some new and some lingering). Hiddush has been stepping up its legal advocacy work in response to this need; the following are just a few examples: 2016 Israel Religion and State Index - by party voters https://hiddush.org/article-17018-0-2016_Israel_Religion_and_State_Index__by_party_voters.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-17018-0-2016_Israel_Religion_and_State_Index__by_party_voters.aspx Thu, 08 Dec 2016 19:02:00 GMT In Israel's Jewish community there is very broad opposition to the Government's actions in realm of religion & state and consistent support for all aspects of religious freedom and equality. This is the main conclusion of the Israel Religion & State Index. Knesset Internal Affairs Committee Chair stoops even lower! https://hiddush.org/article-17008-0-Knesset_Internal_Affairs_Committee_Chair_stoops_even_lower.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-17008-0-Knesset_Internal_Affairs_Committee_Chair_stoops_even_lower.aspx Fri, 18 Nov 2016 11:51:00 GMT The Jewish Federations of North America convened their General Assembly earlier this week, and impressed upon Prime Minister Netanyahu how strongly they feel about implementing the Western Wall Agreement that his Government reached with Women of the Wall, and the Reform and Conservative movements. While the Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to the agreement, but pleaded to them for patience & silence, MK David Amsalem, a senior member of Netanyahu's Likud party, in his official capacity as Chairman of the Knesset Internal Affairs Committee, attempted to sabotage the agreement because it offends his religious sentiments. In doing so he had no compunction acknowledging that this would offend American Jewry. MK Amsalem's ugly disdain for Diaspora Jewry https://hiddush.org/article-17007-0-MK_Amsalems_ugly_disdain_for_Diaspora_Jewry.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-17007-0-MK_Amsalems_ugly_disdain_for_Diaspora_Jewry.aspx Tue, 08 Nov 2016 12:04:00 GMT We who truly care about Israel's well-being and bond with world Jewry must not continue tolerating such contempt for (and humiliation of) Diaspora Jewry and the largest Jewish religious streams at the hands of the leaders of the parties that serve in his Government Coalition. 2016 Religion & State Index: the Zionist Orthodox sector https://hiddush.org/article-16971-0-2016_Religion__State_Index_the_Zionist_Orthodox_sector.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16971-0-2016_Religion__State_Index_the_Zionist_Orthodox_sector.aspx Thu, 13 Oct 2016 21:58:00 GMT Should Israeli actualize freedom of religion and conscience? - 95% of Zionist Orthodox moderates support this, as do 62% of mainstream Orthodox Zionists and 53% of Zionist ultra-Orthodox Israelis. The Index reflects the Government's total disregard for the public's will, but shows signs of hope within the moderate Zionist Orthodox community. Ritual Bath Law passes, Jewish Agency plays Haredi parties' game https://hiddush.org/article-16929-0-Ritual_Bath_Law_passes_Jewish_Agency_plays_Haredi_parties_game.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16929-0-Ritual_Bath_Law_passes_Jewish_Agency_plays_Haredi_parties_game.aspx Thu, 28 Jul 2016 13:10:00 GMT The discriminatory Ritual Bath bill proposed by MK Rabbi Moshe Gafni and his colleagues, which will ban the non-Orthodox movements from using Israel's publicly funded mikva'ot for conversion ceremonies was formally passed into law on Monday night, July 25. Knesset expedites reversal of core curricular studies law https://hiddush.org/article-16930-0-Knesset_expedites_reversal_of_core_curricular_studies_law.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16930-0-Knesset_expedites_reversal_of_core_curricular_studies_law.aspx Tue, 26 Jul 2016 20:53:00 GMT The Knesset reverses a law that would have reduced funding for ultra-Orthodox schools that teach only minimal core subjects, such as math, English, and science. The number of Haredi yeshiva students has fallen for the past 5 years https://hiddush.org/article-16920-0-The_number_of_Haredi_yeshiva_students_has_fallen_for_the_past_5_years.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16920-0-The_number_of_Haredi_yeshiva_students_has_fallen_for_the_past_5_years.aspx Mon, 20 Jun 2016 13:59:00 GMT According to the Ministry of Education, the rise in the number of ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students has stopped, holding steady at approximately 70,000. The percentage of ultra-Orthodox men studying full-time in yeshivas dropped over the course of recent years from 61% to 50%. 72% Jewish Israelis support public transportation on Shabbat https://hiddush.org/article-16914-0-72_Jewish_Israelis_support_public_transportation_on_Shabbat.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16914-0-72_Jewish_Israelis_support_public_transportation_on_Shabbat.aspx Sun, 19 Jun 2016 07:24:00 GMT The gap between the public's support for public transportation on Shabbat and the cowardly, embarrassing intransigence of the Coalition is intolerable. MK Yael German (Yesh Atid): "A minority faction in the Knesset prevents such measures for social justice." Separate but equal in Israel? Why should this be considered okay? https://hiddush.org/article-16921-0-Separate_but_equal_in_Israel_Why_should_this_be_considered_okay.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16921-0-Separate_but_equal_in_Israel_Why_should_this_be_considered_okay.aspx Thu, 16 Jun 2016 20:44:00 GMT Serious questions should arise, regarding the ongoing challenge of equal rights and access for the non-Orthodox movements Israel, which continues to follow the path of this unconstitutional principle of "separate but equal." Israel's ritual bath controversy https://hiddush.org/article-16913-0-Israels_ritual_bath_controversy.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16913-0-Israels_ritual_bath_controversy.aspx Thu, 16 Jun 2016 20:00:00 GMT Unsurprisingly, though extremely disappointingly, MK Gafni's partners in the Coalition Government have all bowed to his demands, and are supporting his legislative initiative to undo the landmark Supreme Court ruling on mikva'ot. Israeli Funds for Youth at Risk Skewed Toward ultra-Orthodox Jews https://hiddush.org/article-16911-0-Israeli_Funds_for_Youth_at_Risk_Skewed_Toward_ultraOrthodox_Jews.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16911-0-Israeli_Funds_for_Youth_at_Risk_Skewed_Toward_ultraOrthodox_Jews.aspx Thu, 09 Jun 2016 11:10:00 GMT Some 60 percent of the funds budgeted for youth at risk goes toward helping ultra-Orthodox teenagers, even though they are only 15 percent of the teen population, according to Social Affairs Ministry data compiled by Hiddush. Politics casts shadow over encouraging legal progress & public opinion https://hiddush.org/article-16907-0-Politics_casts_shadow_over_encouraging_legal_progress__public_opinion.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16907-0-Politics_casts_shadow_over_encouraging_legal_progress__public_opinion.aspx Thu, 26 May 2016 09:07:00 GMT Hiddush derives encouragement from developments on the fronts of public opinion and the legal arena, but on the political scene, the news is more bleak than encouraging when it comes to issues of religious freedom & equality. Updates: the Kotel agreement & Supreme Court mikva'ot ruling https://hiddush.org/article-16851-0-Updates_the_Kotel_agreement__Supreme_Court_mikvaot_ruling.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16851-0-Updates_the_Kotel_agreement__Supreme_Court_mikvaot_ruling.aspx Mon, 21 Mar 2016 12:39:00 GMT In the last week, there have been a number of developments in the ultra-Orthodox political and rabbinical leadership's battle against the implementation of the Kotel agreement, as well as their battle against the Supreme Court's ruling to make Israel's public mikva'ot available for non-Orthodox conversion ceremonies. Israeli Left Must Internalize That ultra-Orthodox Parties Are Not Partners https://hiddush.org/article-16908-0-Israeli_Left_Must_Internalize_That_ultraOrthodox_Parties_Are_Not_Partners.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16908-0-Israeli_Left_Must_Internalize_That_ultraOrthodox_Parties_Are_Not_Partners.aspx Wed, 16 Mar 2016 10:40:00 GMT ​ How is it that the left-wing and center opposition factions hardly deal with issues of state and religion? Is the opposition again deluding itself that the ultra-Orthodox parties will reward it by forming a government with it? 71% of Israeli Jews: Rabbinate's monopoly distances Jews from Judaism https://hiddush.org/article-16810-0-71_of_Israeli_Jews_Rabbinates_monopoly_distances_Jews_from_Judaism.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16810-0-71_of_Israeli_Jews_Rabbinates_monopoly_distances_Jews_from_Judaism.aspx Sun, 14 Feb 2016 14:54:00 GMT Not only is the denial of the freedom to marry antithetical to core democratic principles, but it also undermines Jewish interests. 71% of the Israeli Jewish public maintain that the Chief Rabbinate's and the rabbinical courts' monopoly over marriage and divorce distances Jews from Judaism. 76% of Israeli Jews oppose new conscription law https://hiddush.org/article-16763-0-76_of_Israeli_Jews_oppose_new_conscription_law.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-16763-0-76_of_Israeli_Jews_oppose_new_conscription_law.aspx Thu, 26 Nov 2015 09:34:00 GMT Israel’s politicians have deliberately chosen to pursue legislation which is not only immoral but also unconstitutional, having been struck out twice already by the Supreme Court. The question, though, is how long it will take the Supreme Court to rule that this most recent amendment is illegal as well. Our politicians may be counting on this very fact: the wheels of justice grind slowly… Hiddush analysis of Israel’s state budget https://hiddush.org/article-15752-0-Hiddush_analysis_of_Israel’s_state_budget.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-15752-0-Hiddush_analysis_of_Israel’s_state_budget.aspx Wed, 09 Sep 2015 11:18:00 GMT The state budget for yeshivas is expected to grow by 419 million shekels, an increase of three-quarters. This is blow to the heart of Israel’s future, and a slap in the voters' faces. Sacrificing Israel's economy at the altar of yeshiva studies and politics https://hiddush.org/article-13728-0-Sacrificing_Israels_economy_at_the_altar_of_yeshiva_studies_and_politics.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-13728-0-Sacrificing_Israels_economy_at_the_altar_of_yeshiva_studies_and_politics.aspx Sun, 14 Jun 2015 10:52:00 GMT The cataclysmic consequences of the irresponsible policies pursued by most Israeli governments when it comes to the dictates of their religious coalition partners have been reinforced by a major study of Israel’s economy through 2059, published recently by Assaf Geva, a senior Finance Ministry economist. The Coalition Agreements: Religion and State Clauses https://hiddush.org/article-13725-0-The_Coalition_Agreements_Religion_and_State_Clauses.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-13725-0-The_Coalition_Agreements_Religion_and_State_Clauses.aspx Wed, 27 May 2015 20:00:00 GMT We are pleased to present to you the analysis report prepared by Hiddush on the religion and state clauses in Israel's 2015 coalition agreements. The document deals with budgets matters; education; freedom of religion and equality of civic burden. Rabbi John Rosove: The New Israeli Government and Ultra-Orthodox Parties https://hiddush.org/article-12741-0-Rabbi_John_Rosove_The_New_Israeli_Government_and_UltraOrthodox_Parties.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-12741-0-Rabbi_John_Rosove_The_New_Israeli_Government_and_UltraOrthodox_Parties.aspx Wed, 06 May 2015 09:33:00 GMT As he strives to form a government, Prime Minister Netanyahu is making deals with small parties in exchange for their support. Selling out to the ultra-Orthodox parties - what cost? https://hiddush.org/article-12728-0-Selling_out_to_the_ultraOrthodox_parties__what_cost.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-12728-0-Selling_out_to_the_ultraOrthodox_parties__what_cost.aspx Thu, 30 Apr 2015 22:52:00 GMT UTJ was one of the first parties to sign a coalition agreement with the Likud. What are the costs to the Israeli government and taxpayers associated with this agreement? Overwhelming majority of voters STILL want Ultra-Orthodox Parties out of coalition https://hiddush.org/article-11725-0-Overwhelming_majority_of_voters_STILL_want_UltraOrthodox_Parties_out_of_coalition.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-11725-0-Overwhelming_majority_of_voters_STILL_want_UltraOrthodox_Parties_out_of_coalition.aspx Thu, 26 Mar 2015 14:47:00 GMT According to a March 24 poll conducted by Rafi Smith Polling Institute for Hiddush – Freedom of Religion in Israel, 62% of Israelis support a government without the ultra-Orthodox parties; 87% prefer that control of the Knesset Finance Committee be given to Kulanu, rather than United Torah Judaism (UTJ). Prepare for the return of the ultra-Orthodox parties https://hiddush.org/article-9680-0-Prepare_for_the_return_of_the_ultraOrthodox_parties.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-9680-0-Prepare_for_the_return_of_the_ultraOrthodox_parties.aspx Thu, 11 Dec 2014 10:01:00 GMT A simple analysis shows that the only significant change between the current government and the next one will be a replacement of the center-right government by a government comprising the right and the ultra-Orthodox parties. The centrist Yesh Atid party, led by former Finance Minister Yair Lapid, and the small HaTenua party led by former Justice Minister Tzipi Livni, will be replaced by the United Torah Judaism party and Shas. Overwhelming majority of voters want Ultra-Orthodox Parties out of coalition https://hiddush.org/article-9677-0-Overwhelming_majority_of_voters_want_UltraOrthodox_Parties_out_of_coalition.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-9677-0-Overwhelming_majority_of_voters_want_UltraOrthodox_Parties_out_of_coalition.aspx Tue, 09 Dec 2014 09:21:00 GMT According to a December 3 poll, 62% of Israeli voters do not want the ultra-Orthodox parties in the next government, and 74% do not want to increase public funding for yeshivas. But most importantly: how will the undecided voters sway the upcoming March 17 elections? Hiddush to Knesset: Voters Want Change https://hiddush.org/article-6673-0-Hiddush_to_Knesset_Voters_Want_Change.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-6673-0-Hiddush_to_Knesset_Voters_Want_Change.aspx Sat, 01 Nov 2014 23:02:00 GMT Hiddush Vice President of Research and Information Shahar Ilan provided all Knesset Members with Hiddush's detailed analysis of the 2014 Israel Religion and State Index. It's clear that the voters want change - but the Knesset has been dragging its feet. Israel's religion and state conflict take the Knesset's winter session by storm https://hiddush.org/article-2556-0-Israels_religion_and_state_conflict_take_the_Knessets_winter_session_by_storm.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2556-0-Israels_religion_and_state_conflict_take_the_Knessets_winter_session_by_storm.aspx Wed, 16 Oct 2013 12:17:00 GMT Knesset lawmakers are starting up the winter session right where they left off; equality in sharing the burden, accesibility of religious services, and public transportation on shabbat were immediately addressed by several cabinet members. Why did MK Moshe Gafni single out Hiddush in the Knesset? https://hiddush.org/article-2447-0-Why_did_MK_Moshe_Gafni_single_out_Hiddush_in_the_Knesset.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2447-0-Why_did_MK_Moshe_Gafni_single_out_Hiddush_in_the_Knesset.aspx Thu, 11 Apr 2013 13:23:00 GMT MK Moshe Gafni (UTJ) is right about one thing: Hiddush works tirelessly to provide up-to-date facts and figures to policymakers on religion/state issues to advance the freedoms that were promised to Israelis in the Declaration of Independence. Hiddush analyzes the impact of the new coalition agreements on religion/state in Israel https://hiddush.org/article-2440-0-Hiddush_analyzes_the_impact_of_the_new_coalition_agreements_on_religionstate_in_Israel.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2440-0-Hiddush_analyzes_the_impact_of_the_new_coalition_agreements_on_religionstate_in_Israel.aspx Mon, 18 Mar 2013 09:36:00 GMT Little and unsatisfactory reference to religious freedom, Equality in shouldering civic burden obligation to serve only starts in 4 years, in the meantime, full exemption to yeshiva students over the age of 22. Potential dramatic cuts in subsidies to ultra-Orthodox sector. Hiddush releases proposal for implementing Civil Society in the State of Israel https://hiddush.org/article-2438-0-Hiddush_releases_proposal_for_implementing_Civil_Society_in_the_State_of_Israel_.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2438-0-Hiddush_releases_proposal_for_implementing_Civil_Society_in_the_State_of_Israel_.aspx Sun, 10 Mar 2013 13:40:00 GMT Hiddush released an detailed plan for implementing a civil society in the State of Israel for members of the new Knesset. The proposal is based around an additional basic law to implement religious freedom and conscience in Israel. Where does Yesh Atid stand on freedom of marriage? https://hiddush.org/article-2435-0-Where_does_Yesh_Atid_stand_on_freedom_of_marriage.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2435-0-Where_does_Yesh_Atid_stand_on_freedom_of_marriage.aspx Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:02:00 GMT Yair Lapid and his party, Yesh Atid, have expressed support for Jewish pluralism in Israel in an unprecedented manner. However, they also endorsed Rabbi David Stav, a Religious-Zionist Rabbi from the Tzohar Rabbinic Organization, as the candidate for Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi. Yesh Atid and Rabbi Stav hold seemingly divergent views on pluralism and freedom of marriage in Israel. So how does this all add up? Hiddush election analysis shows impact of religion/state issues on voters' decision-making https://hiddush.org/article-2441-0-Hiddush_election_analysis_shows_impact_of_religionstate_issues_on_voters_decisionmaking.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2441-0-Hiddush_election_analysis_shows_impact_of_religionstate_issues_on_voters_decisionmaking.aspx Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:39:00 GMT After conducting studies both before and after the 2013 Knesset elections, Hiddush noticed a strong trend in voters minds regarding religion/state issues. Rabbi Uri Regev: "Israel must not miss out on this historic opportunity for freedom of religion in Israel." 80% of the Jewish public supports establishing a civil government coalition https://hiddush.org/article-2410-0-80_of_the_Jewish_public_supports_establishing_a_civil_government_coalition_.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2410-0-80_of_the_Jewish_public_supports_establishing_a_civil_government_coalition_.aspx Wed, 30 Jan 2013 17:03:00 GMT Rafi Smith Research Institute to Hiddush: 80% of the Jewish public in Israel support establishing a civil government coalition that will advance the agenda of religious freedom and equality. 70% of Undecided Voters: Voting on Religion and State https://hiddush.org/article-2426-0-70_of_Undecided_Voters_Voting_on_Religion_and_State.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2426-0-70_of_Undecided_Voters_Voting_on_Religion_and_State.aspx Fri, 18 Jan 2013 10:55:00 GMT Pre-election polling shows that 67% of the Jewish public in Israel believes that issues of religion and state will greatly influence their vote, including 69% of secular votes and 91% of ultra-Orthodox voters. President of Hiddush Rabbi Uri Regev comments, "Ignoring the issues of religion and state on the campaign trail only lowers the quality of the discourse and it goes against the interests of the parties." Israel Religion and State Index 2012 https://hiddush.org/article-2396-0-Israel_Religion_and_State_Index_2012.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2396-0-Israel_Religion_and_State_Index_2012.aspx Tue, 25 Sep 2012 11:16:00 GMT Support for religious freedom rises to 85%, 67% say Haredi MKs distance public from Judaism, 76% dissatisfied with government policies on religion The Joke of Israel’s Civil Partnership Law https://hiddush.org/article-2389-0-The_Joke_of_Israel’s_Civil_Partnership_Law.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2389-0-The_Joke_of_Israel’s_Civil_Partnership_Law.aspx Mon, 16 Jul 2012 12:19:00 GMT Fewer than 1.5 couples register with the Civil Partnership registrar each month according to statistics the Ministry of Justice released to Hiddush. Hiddush President Rabbi Uri Regev: “The time has come for Yisrael Beiteinu to realize its mistake and demand the passage of a real Civil Marriage law.” Hiddush VP testifies: No partner in ultra-Orthodox leadership https://hiddush.org/article-2364-0-Hiddush_VP_testifies_No_partner_in_ultraOrthodox_leadership.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2364-0-Hiddush_VP_testifies_No_partner_in_ultraOrthodox_leadership.aspx Sun, 03 Jun 2012 13:49:00 GMT Hiddush Vice President Shahar Ilan testified last week before the Plesner Committee on Equal Sharing of Civic Burdens. “Anyone who thinks there is a respected ultra-Orthodox authority who is ready to encourage yeshiva students to serve should suggest him. Even Rav Shteinman, presented as a moderate, leads the fight against compulsory service." Mofaz and Netanyahu unity government must promote equality https://hiddush.org/article-2361-0-Mofaz_and_Netanyahu_unity_government_must_promote_equality.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2361-0-Mofaz_and_Netanyahu_unity_government_must_promote_equality.aspx Tue, 08 May 2012 10:00:00 GMT Amid the shocking news of the Netanyahu and Mofaz unity government, it is critical "to take advantage of having a clear civil majority in the coalition to advance the recommendations of the Trajtenberg Committee", and promote true equality in Israel. Lapid announces hollow plan to integrate ultra-Orthodox https://hiddush.org/article-2360-0-Lapid_announces_hollow_plan_to_integrate_ultraOrthodox.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2360-0-Lapid_announces_hollow_plan_to_integrate_ultraOrthodox.aspx Wed, 02 May 2012 14:17:00 GMT Yair Lapid proposes a five year exemption of yeshiva students. Hiddush President Uri Regev warns: "This would be the end of the People's army" Ultra-Orthodox children's paper excludes Israeli flag https://hiddush.org/article-2359-0-UltraOrthodox_childrens_paper_excludes_Israeli_flag.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2359-0-UltraOrthodox_childrens_paper_excludes_Israeli_flag.aspx Mon, 30 Apr 2012 13:56:00 GMT An ultra-Orthodox paper in Israel, written in Hebrew, features a story on the history of flags from across the globe. But where is the Israeli flag, where all of these children live? Hiddush's Tent of the Stuck: Waiting for the bus on Shabbat https://hiddush.org/article-2358-0-Hiddushs_Tent_of_the_Stuck_Waiting_for_the_bus_on_Shabbat.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2358-0-Hiddushs_Tent_of_the_Stuck_Waiting_for_the_bus_on_Shabbat.aspx Sun, 29 Apr 2012 13:30:00 GMT Hiddush and the youth forum "Bamah" joined together this past week to stage a protest in favor on public transportation on Saturday. The current lack of access impacts the most vulnerable of society: the disabled, the elderly, and those who cannot afford the alternatives. Did The Global Jewish Forum on Haredim Face the Facts? https://hiddush.org/article-2357-0-Did_The_Global_Jewish_Forum_on_Haredim_Face_the_Facts.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2357-0-Did_The_Global_Jewish_Forum_on_Haredim_Face_the_Facts.aspx Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:23:00 GMT The Jewish Agency and Makom opened the conversation on the impact of ultra-Orthodoxy on Israel and on the Jewish People as a whole, but did they give their participants a full picture? Chaim Weizmann's warning https://hiddush.org/article-2356-0-Chaim_Weizmanns_warning.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2356-0-Chaim_Weizmanns_warning.aspx Wed, 25 Apr 2012 10:09:00 GMT Chaim Weizman, Israel’s first president, warned in 1949 of the impending culture clash that would face the State of Israel: “We must have a clear line of demarcation between legitimate religious aspirations and the duty of the State towards preserving such aspirations on the one hand, and on the other hand the lust for power which is sometimes exhibited by pseudo-religious groups”. 83% of Jewish Israelis want change in housing subsidies https://hiddush.org/article-2355-0-83_of_Jewish_Israelis_want_change_in_housing_subsidies.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2355-0-83_of_Jewish_Israelis_want_change_in_housing_subsidies.aspx Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:22:00 GMT 83% of Jewish Israelis believe housing subsidies should follow the recommendations of the Trajtenberg Committee, as opposed to current policies which overwhelmingly favor the ultra-Orthodox population. 82% of Israeli Jews support a law of mandatory conscription for yeshiva students https://hiddush.org/article-2348-0-82_of_Israeli_Jews_support_a_law_of_mandatory_conscription_for_yeshiva_students.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2348-0-82_of_Israeli_Jews_support_a_law_of_mandatory_conscription_for_yeshiva_students.aspx Mon, 05 Mar 2012 10:44:00 GMT 68% of Israeli Jews support denying subsidies to those who don’t serve in the army, 69% support the Supreme Court decision to invalidate the Tal Law*, and 82% support passing a law that would force most yeshiva students to enlist. All time high in yeshiva student numbers: about 114,000 https://hiddush.org/article-2344-0-All_time_high_in_yeshiva_student_numbers_about_114000.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2344-0-All_time_high_in_yeshiva_student_numbers_about_114000.aspx Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:44:00 GMT How many new publicly funded yeshiva students have there been in the past two year? The answer: 11,000. And how many new yeshiva students have either enlisted in the army or national service increased by only 500. Hiddush commends Supreme Court ruling on Tal Law https://hiddush.org/article-2341-0-Hiddush_commends_Supreme_Court_ruling_on_Tal_Law.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2341-0-Hiddush_commends_Supreme_Court_ruling_on_Tal_Law.aspx Tue, 21 Feb 2012 22:51:00 GMT Today’s historic Supreme Court ruling, by a majority of 6:3, voided the “Tal Law” and said mass exemption of Yeshiva students from military service must be stopped Hiddush presents: Exclude the Excluders! https://hiddush.org/article-2340-0-Hiddush_presents_Exclude_the_Excluders.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2340-0-Hiddush_presents_Exclude_the_Excluders.aspx Wed, 15 Feb 2012 03:30:00 GMT Director of Hiddush, Rabbi Uri Regev: "No more will women be excluded from the public sphere. We can no longer stand with those who promote the exclusion of women, the time has come to for a civil governmental coalition without those who exclude." 15,000% Growth in army exemptions for yeshiva students since 1948 https://hiddush.org/article-2337-0-15000_Growth_in_army_exemptions_for_yeshiva_students_since_1948.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2337-0-15000_Growth_in_army_exemptions_for_yeshiva_students_since_1948.aspx Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:08:00 GMT Number of current yeshiva students receiving deferments estimated at 58,000. Hiddush President Adv. Rabbi Uri Regev: “Any extension of the Tal Law does a huge disservice to the proud concept of the Peoples’ Army. The public will not tolerate continued discrimination in favor of the ultra-Orthodox; any extension will see great consequences in the next election.” Women only 5 percent of religious councils https://hiddush.org/article-2333-0-Women_only_5_percent_of_religious_councils.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2333-0-Women_only_5_percent_of_religious_councils.aspx Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:55:00 GMT Only one woman was appointed as a member of a religious council in 2011. Not a single council chair is female. Hiddush President, Rabbi Uri Regev: The horrific discrimination against women on religious councils only provides more proof that they must be eliminated and their responsibilities transferred to local authorities. Rabbi Regev says: Torpedo Netanyahu’s extension to the Tal Law https://hiddush.org/article-2321-0-Rabbi_Regev_says_Torpedo_Netanyahu’s_extension_to_the_Tal_Law.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2321-0-Rabbi_Regev_says_Torpedo_Netanyahu’s_extension_to_the_Tal_Law.aspx Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:38:00 GMT The Tal Law, which intended to provide ultra-Orthodox men a means to fulfill military or civil service, has been called “a miserable farce” by MK Nitzan Horowitz. Rabbi Regev says “Any extension in the law beyond a year will be rewarding the law’s failure and encourage draft dodging.” Hiddush Poll: 43% of the Israeli Jewish public support Lapid’s entry into political life https://hiddush.org/article-2320-0-Hiddush_Poll_43_of_the_Israeli_Jewish_public_support_Lapid’s_entry_into_political_life.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2320-0-Hiddush_Poll_43_of_the_Israeli_Jewish_public_support_Lapid’s_entry_into_political_life.aspx Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:14:00 GMT 34% of the respondents said they are very likely or somewhat likely to vote for a new party that will advance religious freedom and the equal shouldering of civic responsibilities. Hiddush president, Rabbi Uri Regev: “There is great eagerness among Israelis for a new political leader that will focus on religious freedom and equality”. Attempt to allow voluntary segregation of buses fails https://hiddush.org/article-2306-0-Attempt_to_allow_voluntary_segregation_of_buses_fails.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2306-0-Attempt_to_allow_voluntary_segregation_of_buses_fails.aspx Sun, 18 Dec 2011 21:12:00 GMT A bus was delayed half an hour after a woman refused to give in to ultra-Orthodox demans to sit in the back. CEO of Hiddush, Rabbi Uri Regev says: Ultra-Orthodox zealots enforce bus segregation with violence Hiddush Poll: 78% of the Jewish Israelis support recommendations of the Trajtenberg Committee https://hiddush.org/article-2287-0-Hiddush_Poll_78_of_the_Jewish_Israelis_support_recommendations_of_the_Trajtenberg_Committee.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2287-0-Hiddush_Poll_78_of_the_Jewish_Israelis_support_recommendations_of_the_Trajtenberg_Committee.aspx Sun, 20 Nov 2011 09:40:00 GMT 78% of the Jewish population of Israel support the recommendations of the Trajtenberg committee dealing with integrating ultra-Orthodox men into the work force, enforcing core curriculum, and limiting funding for yeshivas Social justice, religious freedom and the tent protests https://hiddush.org/article-2267-0-Social_justice_religious_freedom_and_the_tent_protests.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2267-0-Social_justice_religious_freedom_and_the_tent_protests.aspx Sat, 22 Oct 2011 12:23:00 GMT Protest leaders did their utmost to stick to economic demands. Trajtenberg Committee Recommends Compulsory core curriculum, limiting the study of young men in yeshiva. https://hiddush.org/article-2263-0-Trajtenberg_Committee_Recommends_Compulsory_core_curriculum_limiting_the_study_of_young_men_in_yeshiva.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2263-0-Trajtenberg_Committee_Recommends_Compulsory_core_curriculum_limiting_the_study_of_young_men_in_yeshiva.aspx Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:07:00 GMT The Trajtenberg Committee, appointed by the Prime Minister to address the public’s concern on socio-economic issues, has released its findings. They have made bold recommendations, asking to require ultra-Orthodox schools to utilize core curriculum, and limit publicly funded yeshiva study to five years except in the case of prodigies. CEO Rabbi Uri Regev called for Netanyahu to implement the recommendations in full and stave off pressures from ultra-Orthodox political parties. Israel 2021 Conference Confronts Ultra-Orthodox Workplace Integration https://hiddush.org/article-2257-0-Israel_2021_Conference_Confronts_UltraOrthodox_Workplace_Integration.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2257-0-Israel_2021_Conference_Confronts_UltraOrthodox_Workplace_Integration.aspx Thu, 22 Sep 2011 12:52:00 GMT Although not part of the scheduled program, many speakers at the Israel 2021 conference sponsored by The Marker newspaper emphasized the necessity of ultra-Orthodox integration into the workforce as a means of socio-economic stability for the country as a whole. Livni: No Core Curriculum, No Funding. https://hiddush.org/article-2253-0-Livni_No_Core_Curriculum_No_Funding.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2253-0-Livni_No_Core_Curriculum_No_Funding.aspx Mon, 05 Sep 2011 10:48:00 GMT Livni shared her thoughts at the “Israel 2021 Conference” and in an interview with the newspaper The Marker. Hiddush CEO Rabbi Regev welcomes her comments: “If Livni can fulfill her promise, there can be true social justice.” Ben-Gurion Expressed Regret for Army Exemptions for Yeshiva Students https://hiddush.org/article-2250-0-BenGurion_Expressed_Regret_for_Army_Exemptions_for_Yeshiva_Students.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2250-0-BenGurion_Expressed_Regret_for_Army_Exemptions_for_Yeshiva_Students.aspx Mon, 05 Sep 2011 07:56:00 GMT Hiddush publishes a letter from Israel's first prime minister suggesting regret for the army exemption granted to men in yeshivot. Hiddush Shows two-thirds of Israelis Support Civil Marriage https://hiddush.org/article-2243-0-Hiddush_Shows_twothirds_of_Israelis_Support_Civil_Marriage.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2243-0-Hiddush_Shows_twothirds_of_Israelis_Support_Civil_Marriage.aspx Tue, 26 Jul 2011 08:12:00 GMT Researchers Drs. Guy Ben-Porat and Yariv Feniger posit that because there is a gap between support for civil marriage and personal interest in having a civil marriage, major political parties do not promote the issue. Hiddush CEO Rabbi Regev: “Leading up to elections, people need to demand that the political party leaders commit themselves to…carry out a civil revolution, including freedom of choice in marriage” Chabad Hassidism is anti-Zionist https://hiddush.org/article-2236-0-Chabad_Hassidism_is_antiZionist.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2236-0-Chabad_Hassidism_is_antiZionist.aspx Sun, 17 Jul 2011 07:29:00 GMT The Lubavitcher Rebbe defined Israel as ‘bitter exile and double-fold darkness.’ Senior Chabad members describe the Rebbe as one of the great fighters against Zionism. Hiddush head Rabbi Regev calls on the government ‘to stop the campaign of debasement before the anti-Zionist Hassidic sect and order and end to funding and all contact between the state and Chabad.’ Municipal Rabbis Get 250% Raise https://hiddush.org/article-2165-0-Municipal_Rabbis_Get_250_Raise.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2165-0-Municipal_Rabbis_Get_250_Raise.aspx Wed, 25 May 2011 09:30:00 GMT In a struggling economy, the ultra-Orthodox lock in a 250% raise for their own municipal rabbis Amsalem Reaches Out To Anglos https://hiddush.org/article-2164-0-Amsalem_Reaches_Out_To_Anglos.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2164-0-Amsalem_Reaches_Out_To_Anglos.aspx Sun, 22 May 2011 11:14:00 GMT US–born Rabbi Dov Lipman to seek Knesset seat with ex-Shas maverick MK’s Am Shalem party. Women On Religious Councils https://hiddush.org/article-2161-0-Women_On_Religious_Councils.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2161-0-Women_On_Religious_Councils.aspx Mon, 16 May 2011 10:34:00 GMT Hiddush study shows women make up only 5% of religious councils IDF Exempts Thousands Of Haredim https://hiddush.org/article-2139-0-IDF_Exempts_Thousands_Of_Haredim.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2139-0-IDF_Exempts_Thousands_Of_Haredim.aspx Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:38:00 GMT Coalition attempts exemptions "under the radar" Mimouna Festival Supports Conversions https://hiddush.org/article-2138-0-Mimouna_Festival_Supports_Conversions.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2138-0-Mimouna_Festival_Supports_Conversions.aspx Wed, 27 Apr 2011 11:09:00 GMT Festival takes stance resisting coercion Rabbis are leading the religious struggles https://hiddush.org/article-2117-0-Rabbis_are_leading_the_religious_struggles.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2117-0-Rabbis_are_leading_the_religious_struggles.aspx Tue, 22 Mar 2011 11:02:00 GMT The public is not buying the claim that the shabbat militants are motivated by ethical reasons. 74% of the Jewish public: Judaism unifies, the rabbis divide. 53%: the police are handling the demonstrations too leniently. Majority in Favor of Transportation on Shabbat https://hiddush.org/article-2116-0-Majority_in_Favor_of_Transportation_on_Shabbat.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2116-0-Majority_in_Favor_of_Transportation_on_Shabbat.aspx Thu, 17 Mar 2011 11:17:00 GMT A survey by the Central Bureau of Statistics also reveals that the majority of the public, including 15% of religious people, are in favor of opening shopping centers outside of cities on shabbat. Steinitz Surrenders To Shas https://hiddush.org/article-2114-0-Steinitz_Surrenders_To_Shas.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2114-0-Steinitz_Surrenders_To_Shas.aspx Thu, 17 Mar 2011 10:42:00 GMT The housing ministry is planning close to 60 thousand apartments for Haredim in the periphery. The CEO of Hiddush, Uri Regev: Instead of investing in putting yeshiva students to work, the coalition is doling out a free mortgage to every yeshiva student. Participation In The March https://hiddush.org/article-2112-0-Participation_In_The_March.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2112-0-Participation_In_The_March.aspx Tue, 15 Mar 2011 10:58:00 GMT The CEO of Ne'emanei Torah Va'Avodah explains on the "Kippah" online site why it was important to participate in the Stretcher March. Students petition continued kollel stipends https://hiddush.org/article-2087-0-Students_petition_continued_kollel_stipends.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2087-0-Students_petition_continued_kollel_stipends.aspx Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:01:00 GMT Five weeks after the govt. approved the continued payment of stipends to kollel students, public advocacy and student groups filed a petition on Sunday to the court demanding that it prevent the govt. from continuing to pay. Incentives not to work https://hiddush.org/article-2233-0-Incentives_not_to_work.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2233-0-Incentives_not_to_work.aspx Thu, 18 Nov 2010 18:28:00 GMT To put the ultra-Orthodox to work, the stipend pipeline must be cut. Any other policy would be irresponsible and endanger Israel and its economy The Conversion Law Fraud https://hiddush.org/article-2186-0-The_Conversion_Law_Fraud.aspx https://hiddush.org/article-2186-0-The_Conversion_Law_Fraud.aspx Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:36:00 GMT The conversion law proposal that was supposed to help immigrants from the former Soviet Union has undergone changes which only strengthen the monopoly of the Chief Rabbinate. How the mighty have fallen.