Knesset Approves Gender Segregation in Higher Education Amid Legislative Push

In a legislative session held overnight between Wednesday and Thursday, the Knesset approved a controversial law permitting gender segregation in advanced academic degrees. The bill, led by MK Limor Son Har-Melech of Otzma Yehudit, passed with 52 votes in favor and 43 against. It aims to expand existing gender separation in higher education institutions, allowing separate tracks not only in classrooms but also in public spaces such as cafeterias, laboratories, and libraries. Son Har-Melech emphasized that the law does not mandate segregation but enables institutions to offer separate study tracks, framing it as a victory for freedom of choice and equal opportunity. The law effectively overturns a previous Supreme Court ruling that prohibited gender-segregated studies in advanced degrees.

The approval came amid a legislative blitz before the Knesset's dissolution, with other key bills under discussion including a media weakening law spearheaded by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi and a proposal to extend mandatory IDF service to 32 months. MK Oshrat Shkeli from Likud praised Karhi for his steadfastness in advancing the media reform, which aims to overhaul the communications market with significant economic benefits for government-aligned media owners. The media law has faced strong opposition from legal advisors and regulatory bodies, who warn it threatens free press and contains serious procedural flaws.

Regarding the military service extension, the Knesset is set to consider increasing compulsory service from 30 to 32 months due to personnel shortages. The IDF has even requested a 36-month term to meet operational needs, sparking debate within political and military circles. The legislative session is expected to resume at 9:00 AM with further votes on these and other bills.

This legislative activity reflects the coalition's push to implement its agenda rapidly before the Knesset dissolves, touching on sensitive issues of gender, media freedom, and national security.