New Bill Targets Haredi Education Networks, Threatens Funding
Translated & summarized from Channel 13 by baba
The "Democrats" party plans to propose a bill that would strip Haredi education networks of their special legal status, potentially cutting their state funding by nearly NIS 1 billion annually. The bill aims to force these networks to teach core subjects and Zionist values or transition to the state-run Haredi education system. While the proposal is seen as a political message, key figures like Gadi Eisenkot and Avigdor Lieberman are reportedly hesitant to advance it, aiming to preserve political relations with Haredi parties.
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- A new bill targets Haredi education networks, potentially cutting their NIS 3.3 billion budget.
- Networks would need to teach core subjects or move to the state-run Haredi system.
- The change would be irreversible, preventing future status changes via legislation.
- Key politicians Gadi Eisenkot and Avigdor Lieberman may not advance the bill currently.
The "Democrats" party is set to introduce a significant bill aimed at dismantling a key power base of Haredi parties: their independent education networks. For years, these networks have received 100% state funding without being required to teach core subjects or Zionist and democratic values. In the past year alone, their combined budget was NIS 3.3 billion. If the bill passes, these networks could face an annual budget cut of nearly NIS 1 billion.
Legal experts suggest the only way for the Haredi networks to continue receiving full funding would be to transition to the state-run Haredi education framework (Mamalachi-Haredi). The proposed law also stipulates that this change would be irreversible, preventing the networks from reverting to their previous status through future legislation. Political observers view this move as a direct message to Haredi parties: cooperate with the "change bloc," or face legislative action from the Knesset majority.
However, it appears Gadi Eisenkot and Avigdor Lieberman will not advance the bill at this time, seeking to avoid damaging political ties with Haredi parties. Haredi leadership and parties are closely monitoring the developments with concern, while projecting a firm stance.