Israeli Treasury Data Reveals Huge Subsidy Gaps Favoring Ultra-Orthodox Communities

A recent analysis by Israel's Ministry of Finance, presented during a discussion on yeshiva student conscription, reveals significant disparities in state subsidies between ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) Jewish households and non-Haredi Jewish households. The data, current as of 2022, shows that Haredi families have substantially higher chances of receiving various government benefits, including daycare subsidies, housing grants, and public transportation discounts.

For example, Haredi households are seven times more likely to receive subsidies for daycare and after-school programs compared to non-Haredi Jewish households. They are also 21 times more likely to qualify for housing grants in peripheral areas and long-term rental assistance. Additionally, 72% of Haredi households benefit from property tax reductions, compared to 17% of non-Haredi Jewish households. Public transportation discounts are available to 95% of Haredi families versus 23% of others.

These disparities were highlighted in a meeting led by the Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, focusing on enforcing conscription among yeshiva students who often evade military service. The Treasury recommends revoking subsidies for after-school programs for draft evaders starting in the upcoming school year as an effective measure to increase enlistment rates. Further investigation into rental assistance programs was also proposed.

The discussion noted that recent enforcement actions, such as issuing draft orders to all eligible individuals and tightening economic sanctions, have already contributed to a rise in enlistments. The findings underscore the government's intent to use economic incentives and penalties to address draft evasion within the Haredi community.