Israel Expands Bereavement Leave Rights to Civilian Families for Memorial Days

Israel has passed a significant amendment to the Annual Leave Law, granting workers the right to use one of their existing choice days to observe the memorial day of a first-degree relative who died from civilian causes. Previously, this right was mainly recognized for families of fallen IDF soldiers and victims of terror, while families who lost loved ones due to illness, accidents, murder, or suicide had to seek employer approval to take leave for memorial observance.

The amendment, championed by the national organization Hamanayot and Knesset members Michal Waldiger, Naor Shiri, and others, officially adds the private memorial day of a first-degree relative, parents, children, spouses, siblings, to the list of "choice days" that employees can use without employer refusal, provided they give prior notice. This change offers both legal and moral recognition to civilian bereaved families, allowing them to take leave without repeatedly explaining their loss.

Under the law, workers have two choice days per year, which are deducted from their annual leave entitlement. One of these can now be used for a memorial day, while the other remains for other recognized dates. The law applies equally to public and private sectors. Employees must notify their employer 30 days in advance unless a shorter period is agreed upon. If an employer refuses to grant the leave despite compliance, the employee may have grounds for legal action.

The amendment also clarifies that memorial days can be observed on either the Hebrew or Gregorian calendar date, accommodating diverse family traditions. However, relatives beyond first-degree, such as grandparents, are not covered by this right and must still seek employer approval.

This legislative change reflects a growing societal understanding in Israel, especially since October 7, that grieving extends beyond the immediate mourning period and that families deserve space and dignity to honor their lost loved ones. Hamanayot’s legal and social work director, Yehav Shorer, emphasized the amendment’s importance as a basic human and moral recognition for civilian bereaved families.

For assistance, families can contact Hamanayot’s rights enforcement unit via WhatsApp at 050-4843384.