Source: Israeli Police, September 2024.

122.According to these figures, there is an overall annual decrease in the number of complaints regarding violence against women during these years, observed in both the Jewish and Arab populations, despite a slight increase in the Arab population in 2022.

Table No. 2: Investigation Pursuant to Complaints Filed for Sexual Violence (2021–2023)

Year	Total investigations opened	Suspects by date of opening the investigation (Including suspects investigated more than once)	Total number of suspects investigated for domestic violence (per year)
2020	16,146	17,042	13,947
2021	15,913	16,549	13,579
2022	15,830	16,458	13,256
2023	15,466	16,142	13,088

Source: Israeli Police, September 2024.

* This table shows only cases of domestic violence in which the victim is a woman and a suspect (male/female) was investigated.

123.There is a noticeable downward trend in the number of investigations over the years (with the peak recorded in 2020).

124.As part of GR No. 549 (of October 2021), titled “A Plan to Address the Phenomena of Crime and Violence in Arab Society”, several measures were taken to eradicate crime and violence within the Arab population, including the strengthening of the combat against violence against women. These measures included 15 police investigators positions, which were filled at 13 stations and at the center for victims of crime, supported by a budget of 0.8 Million NIS (220,000 USD) for equipment. Additionally, as part of the Resolution, the Segev-Shalom police station was established and existing stations were reinforced with a total of 226 allocated positions, of which 197 have been staffed. For additional information on police activities aimed at preventing domestic violence, see the Annex (Q.12(a))

Prosecution

125.The SAO places great importance on public engagement and maintaining ongoing dialogue concerning sexual offences with the crime victims, relevant civil organizations, lawyers representing these cases, research institutions and government ministries addressing various aspects of such offences.

126.To address evidentiary difficulties concerning these crimes, the SAO makes a constant effort to train the attorneys and investigative personnel involved in handling such crimes.

127.The SAO established a “Sexual Offenses Forum”, which serves as a center of knowledge and policy for these offenses. This forum works to deepen knowledge among attorneys and other relevant parties in this field. In 2021, the SAO introduced a unique training on sexual offenses, mandatory for all new attorney, and serving as in-depth training for attorneys handling serious sexual offenses. This training provides professional knowledge and practical tools for handling such offenses, while also addressing sexual offenses committed among Arab, ultra-Orthodox and the LGBTQI+ communities. The SAO participates in Police training on sexual offenses, and collaborates with the LAA and support aid organizations for victims of sexual assault.

128.For relevant data and figures see the Annex (Q.12(a)).

129.In 2022, the SAO launched the “State Attorney’s Office application”, an online platform providing detailed and personalized information to various parties (including crime victims, suspects and defendants) regarding cases being conducted in their regard. The application allows those involved to receive real time updates about the status of their cases and about the various stages of the criminal process. The system also provides nonfictions on progress and changes in cases, along with additional information and explanations on the legal procedure, including their rights throughout the process.

Question 12(b)

130.On April 3, 2025, Amendment No. 152 to the Penal Law 5737-1977 (Hereinafter: “The Penal Law”) entered into force. This amendment changes the definition of sexual offenses in the Penal Law, and its main purpose is to abolish the offense of sodomy and amend the offenses of rape and forbidden sexual intercourse by consent so that they are formulated in a gender-neutral manner and include penetration to the body of a woman or a man. According to this amendment, the offense of sodomy was abolished, and the behavior included therein was transferred to the offenses of rape and unlawful penetration. The offense of rape was amended to include penetration of a person’s body, under the circumstances set forth in section 345(a). “Penetration” is defined in the amendment as “inserting a body part or object into the genitals of a woman or the anus of a person, or inserting a genital into the mouth of a person.” The offense of forbidden sexual intercourse was also amended: the offense was renamed to “prohibited penetration” (the term “with consent” was deleted), the offense itself was formulated as prohibited penetration to the body of a male or female minor, man or woman, and the words “not married to him” were deleted from the offense. The purpose of the amendment is to define sexual offenses regardless of the gender of the victim of the offense.

131.The Prevention of Domestic Violence Law 5751-1991, includes a wide definition of the term “Domestic violence offence”, which applies to the criminal field (note that there is no definition of domestic violence behavior that does not amount to a criminal offence). This definition includes “offences of violence” in the Penal Law committed towards a family member.

132.For further information see the Annex (Q.12(b)).

Question 12(c)

133.Round tables: Noting the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on women’s rights, inter-ministerial round table discussions were convened in the Prime Minister’s Office with both State and civil society representatives on this subject. These regular discussions were co-chaired by the Deputy DG of the MoWaSA and the CEO of Israel Women’s Network (NGO). The discussions focused, inter alia, on domestic violence, sexual crimes against women and employment issues.

134.Separately, the MSEaSW worked to ensure that employees in local authorities responsible for promoting women’s rights would be recognized as vital workers; to enable more women in the public sector to work from home; and to ensure women continued to receive benefits that are typically denied when an employee is terminated or placed on unpaid leave.

135.The Knesset Committee for the Advancement of Women and Gender Equality –Between March 2020 and April 2021, the Committee held two discussions on the increase in cases of domestic violence and femicide during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the required government response and continues to follow this matter.

136.The MoWaSA – According to MoWaSA data, as of March 2024, it was still not possible to identify an increase in the number of applications for adult probation service related to domestic violence compared to the same period in the previous year. When examining 2025 data, a moderate increase can be seen in the volume of applications for services in social services departments regarding domestic violence. When examining the data between January and April 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, an increase of approximately 5% is evident in the number of service recipients concerning domestic violence issues. For MoWaSA preparations for a possible increase, see the Annex (Q.12(c)).

137.PWD: The Ministry’s Disability Administration provides an accessible and tailored therapeutic support for individuals treated by the administration and their families in trauma and crisis situations. Responses are provided by professionals who are experts in dealing with situations of violence, sexual abuse and crisis situations. The therapeutic orientation is systemic addressing all aspects of life challenges faced by the individual (e.g. Covid-19, war, home evacuation, terrorism-related anxiety, etc.) while assisting family members and staff with dealing with emotional situation and providing coping tools. Recently, an increase in the need for parental guidance due to behavioral changes has also been reported.

138.Therapeutic intervention is also provided in any new situation regarding violence, sexual abuse and/or marital difficulties. A dedicated budget has been allocated for this purpose, both during the Covid-19 pandemic and the war recognizing the expected increased need for emotional support.

Question 12(d)

139.The Government of Israel has decided, at this point, to suspend the procedures related to the ratification of the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combatting Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence, also known as the Istanbul Convention. Despite this suspension, Israel remains committed to combatting all forms of violence against women and domestic violence through the utilization of its existing internal laws, regulations, and institutions.

Question 12(e)

Government Resolutions

140.Over the years, the Government has actively addressed the prevention of domestic violence by approving a series of GRs. GR No. 1249 (2016) and No. 2820 (2017) focused on formulating of an inter-ministerial action plan for the prevention and treatment of domestic violence. GR No. 4439 (2019) expanded existing activities and specifically allocated one third of the initiatives to women in the Arab population.

141.In Resolution No. 1821 of 2022, the Government decided to expand the powers of the inter-ministerial committee to investigate cases of women murdered by their spouses, so that they would also include the investigations of cases where women were murdered by other family members. In 2023, the inter-ministerial committee’s budget was 165 Million NIS (44 Million USD), and in 2024 the budget is expected to increase by an additional 15 million NIS (4.1 Million USD).

142.The team’s May 2022 recommendations, reflect a conceptual model that serves as a guideline for programs, their budgeting and implementation. The team recommended reducing the gaps between the existing resources and required ones, and evaluated the necessary budget and standards. The team also recommended treatment in out-of-home protective frameworks, the need to develop additional means and alternatives to shelters and transitional apartments as emergencies response with an emphasis on women facing prolonged threats. Other recommendations included establishing multi-professional local steering teams within local authorities, synchronizing actions to reduce violence in the Arab population, and mapping local-level gaps, including responses for at-risk girls.

The Committee for the Advancement of Women and Gender Equality

143.The Committee for the Advancement of Women and Gender Equality (hereinafter: “the Committee”) is mandated with “Combating Violence Against Women” and holds oversight sessions, discussing government ministries activities regarding the prevention of sexual harassment and GBV including domestic violence and sexual violence. Other Knesset Committees work in parallel with the Committee to prevent violence against women, such as the Committee on Constitution, Law and Justice, which is responsible, inter alia, for preventing domestic violence, and the Committee on Labor and Welfare, responsible, inter alia, for the welfare services and frameworks for women suffering from violence including those seeking refuge in shelters for battered women.

144.During the 23rd Knesset, three Sub-Committees were established to address GBV:

•The Sub-Committee on the Elimination of Trafficking of Women for Prostitution Purposes;

•The Sub-Committee on the Promotion of Interests of Young Women and Girls at Risk;

•The Budgetary Oversight Sub-Committee on the Implementation of the Program for the Prevention of Domestic Violence.

145.During the 25th Knesset, half of the Committee’s meetings addressed GBV. Similarly, under the 24th Knesset, half of the Committee’s 70 meetings focused on GBV, while over half of the 86 meetings under the 23rd Knesset addressed GBV.

146.For information on the Committee’s actions during the 23rd Knesset and more, see the Annex (Q.12(e)).

Question 12(f)

147.Health care institutions: In December 2021, the MoH’s DG appointed a committee to examine the protection of helpless persons and minors within the health system. The committee was asked to examine various issues, including: harm caused by staff in medical institutions and institutions under the MoH supervision, harm among helpless individuals themselves or caused by third parties such as visitors, the nature and severity of such harm, existing supervision and reporting mechanisms for protected helpless individuals, and the treatment of incidents of injury within the MoH and in collaboration with the law enforcement system.

148.In August 2022, the committee presented its initial recommendations to the DGs committee. These included, inter alia: Training, registration and enforcement for non‑professional caregivers. Specialized training on protecting helpless individuals for medical staff. Providing information about rights to patients and their family members. Unification of reporting bodies. Establishing real-time database of disciplinary offenses and criminal records of employees. Appointing a dedicated protection officer in medical settings. Improving coordination and continuity among the MoH, the MoWaSA, the MoJ, the CSC and the Israel Police. Implementing an organizational culture that promotes safety and protection. The DGs Committee decided to adopt these recommendations without waiting for the final report.

149.In 2021, the MoH’s DG issued a Circular on handling complaints following sexual harm or harassment during medical treatment (No. 6/2021), requiring all medical institutions to display in a prominent manner clear and accessible instructions on preventing and handling complaints of sexual harm or harassment. The procedure also outlines reporting obligations for professionals, staff, treatment method, etc. and it applies to independent and private caregivers. In 2022, the DG issued two additional circulars: No. 12/2022, addressing preventing and handling sexual harassment by a medical staff member in the health system, and No. 7/2022, regulating the care provided in the health system after sexual assault, and establishes, among other things, general trauma-sensitive treatment principles.

150.An internal MoH team has been appointed to address sexual assault and its prevention in the health system. The team’s goal is to integrate the work being done throughout the MoH, map the needs and barriers, and create, a strategy and intervention plans to address these issues.

151.A national commissioner has been appointed within the MoH as the Public Complaints Commission for the Medical Professions to address sexual harassment by therapists. In early 2025, the MoH DG began appointing a committee to formulate plans and actions to prevent sexual assault between caregivers and patients in the health system.

152.The MoWaSA: In the Disability Administration, interventions to prevent violence are not specifically tailored to women, but are designed for the entire population. Alongside therapeutic responses, proactive actions are taken for raising awareness and sexual and social education is provided by the treatment centers operated by the Administration, which are designed to help in understanding social norms, relations between the genders and social boundaries.

153.Training: Training courses for social workers provide tools and knowledge to address sexual abuse and incidents of domestic violence. Regular training sessions are also held for officials in local authorities and in day-care and housing settings.

154.IPS –Hereinafter are the main measures designed to prevent and address sexual harassment and violence:

155.Staff trainings: The supervisors responsible for preventing sexual harassment in IPS units are required to provide mandatory training on the prohibition and prevention of sexual harassment to all staff at least once every six months with attendance monitored.

156.IPS National Training Center: Core courses, such as command courses and specific professional courses, include training on the prevention of sexual harassment tailored to the relevant audience. These trainings are led by education officers, who also serve as consultants on gender and diversity matters. Officers training also incorporates these consultants.

157.In addition, units unable to complete at least two annual training sessions, due to operational constraints, must complete specially designed training software on the prevention of sexual harassment –developed specially for IPS use.

158.Consultants for Gender and Diversity Affairs: The IPS employs 65 gender and diversity consultants across field units and in the commission itself. These consultants, trained by the Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel, undergo additional training every six months. Their contact information is prominently displayed in each unit. In 2024 the IPS launched a campaign for the prevention of sexual harassment. All new wardens, male or female, are required to meet with their unit’s consultant, receive an overview of the prevention of sexual harassment code and the consultant’s contact details.

159.In 2023, a steering team was established at the IPS to study the issue of protecting female wardens in depth and present suggestions and recommendations to reduce this phenomenon. The team examined various aspects of the issue including the prevention, awareness raising and provision of information, and treatment. Most of the team’s recommendations were incorporated into the IPS work processes in 2024.

160.Minors: As part of the training for wardens working in facilities or wings where minors are held, by virtue of the Youth (Judgment, Punishment and Methods of Treatment) (Conditions of Holding a Minor in Detention or Imprisonment) Regulations 2773-2012, relevant trainings are held, including contents on the reasonable use of force concerning minors.

Question 12(g)

161.Many efforts and resources are invested in ensuring the Police website is accessible and thus available, convenient and user-friendly for the entire population, including PWD. The Israel Police operates in accordance with the accessibility guidelines set in the Israeli standard No. 5568 “Guidelines for the accessibility of content on the Internet” to level AA. This standard is based on the guidelines document of the international organization that deals with internet standardization, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0.

162.The Police website is accessible and adapted, suitable for viewing by persons with visual disabilities and supports screen reading software. The site allows, among other things, text resizing, keyboard navigation, use of accessible screens and more. Additionally, the website includes specific information regarding police accessibility, such as an accessibility statement, information on the accessibility of police stations, information and contact details of the accessibility officer and more. The site also provides information about an emergency hotline for persons with hearing or speech disabilities to assist them in filing applications or complaints (including via fax and email). The Police website includes information on the possibility of filing complaints, both for the general population and for the PWD.

Question 12(h)

163.The Knesset Committee for the Advancement of Women and Gender Equality discussed the vandalism of posters based on gender, including posters of female politicians during election campaigns. The Committee called for stronger action to punish vandals and prevent the vandalism of posters depicting women, including during election campaigns.

164.Additionally, the Knesset’s Ethics Committee, which enforces the Knesset’s Code of Ethics and hears complaints regarding GBV and sexual harassment against female members of the Knesset, received a complaint about a female member of the Knesset who was filmed during a plenum and insulted with statements that could amount to GBV. The Ethics Committee issued a decision stating that the statements were racist and misogynistic, determining that they constituted slander and contradicted the Knesset’s Code of Ethics.

165.Political violence report –The AASW conducted a dedicated study on the issue of political gender violence. As part of the research, an analysis of offensive discourse targeting women in politics on social networks was conducted. In addition, a public participation procedure was carried out with women politicians at both the national (Knesset) and local (local authorities and regional councils) levels. The study revealed, among other things, that: A. Female politicians receive twice as many offensive comments as male politicians; B. Offensive discourse targeting women transcends sectors and political opinions; C. Gender reference increases by 9% within offensive discourse directed at female politicians, with such responses often involving insult or curses typically attributed to women; and D. Silencing and belittling are more dominant phenomena among the offensive discourse about women.

Question 12(i)

166.For further information see Q.7(e) above; and Q.12(j) hereinafter.

Question 12(j)

167.Since 2020, the Police have conducted a uniform training, of about two and a half weeks, for all family department investigators, 2–3 times a year at the National Police College. Investigators from other departments, police prosecutors and social workers serving in the Police’ family departments are also invited to these trainings. As of 2021, specific trainings on investigation and treatment of sexual offenses, sexual harassment and handling crimes against the helpless and PWD, were integrated into the Police general training. As part of these training, various topics concerning unique populations are taught, including: new immigrants, Arab Population, the ultra-Orthodox population and more.

168.The MoWaSA has taken a number of actions to address and prevent cases of violence against women in Arab and Bedouin populations, including:

(a)Recruiting community social workers to improve the early detection of cases of violence against women and raise awareness among the population regarding the prohibition of violence against women;

(b)Recruiting dedicated social workers to treat men and providing them with tools for self-control and reducing their threat towards women;

(c)Recruiting social workers to the Police to assist and accompany crime victims who file a complaint;

(d)Conducting dedicated trainings for social workers for culturally adapted treatment of domestic violence in the Arab population;

(e)Development of a dedicated model for sensitive treatment of family and cultural dynamics within Arab families.

Question 12(k)

169.Handling firearms license applications: In the process of examination of firearms license applications, the Police and the MoH are required to provide recommendations on whether or not to grant a license, according to Sections 11(2) and 11b1(a) of the Firearms Law 5709-1949, respectively, constituting threshold conditions for receiving a license.

170.In practice, the Firearms Licensing Division (FAD) in the Ministry of National Security (MoNS) receives license applications through an online system, and transmit a notification to the Police and to the MoH. The Police is required to determine whether the applicant poses a criminal threat, based on his/her criminal record. To the extent that there is suspicion of a threat to the applicant or others by granting a license, the Police must prohibit granting the license, this recommendation is legally binding.

171.The MoH is required to determine whether there is a mental or psychological impediment based on two sources of information: (1) a ‘Health Declaration’ form that must be attached to the license application (2) information in MoH databases (mainly HMOs and hospitalization departments).

172.Even after granting a private weapon license, the Police and the MoH may recommend to revoke the license following changes in the license holder’s condition. Section 11A of the law imposes a reporting obligation on any health and mental health professional who treats a person and believes that the patient’s possession of a private weapon license poses a threat to the life of the patient or others.

173.For additional data see the Annex (Q12(k)).

174.Women rights organizations criticized the above-mentioned procedure and noted that no in-person interviews were conducted with license applicants, and for the lack of structured interface between the NII and the FAD for the information sharing.

175.The MoWaSA is aware that the increase in the number of private gun owners, alongside the severe effects of war-related trauma, may lead to an increase in domestic violence cases, including murder, and since weapons held at home may pose a threat to women’s security, especially among spouses who face hardships, crises and conflicts. Accordingly, following the outbreak of the war, the MoWaSA issued an update to the guidelines for reporting persons who hold weapons and pose a risk to themselves or their family members.

176.The Ministry has held several dedicated conferences for social workers who treat violence against women in order to implement the provisions of the law and to improve the mechanism for detecting and reporting cases of women at risk due to the possession of a weapon by a partner or family member.

177.The Ministry is in continuous contact with the FAD of the MoNS and is working to improve and streamline cooperation between the two ministries in the treatment of private firearm owners who pose a risk. Both ministries are in the advanced stages of establishing a technological interface that will enable direct reporting from the MoWaSA to the MoNS and will improve coordination between the two ministries, and have also established a joint team to enhance cooperation between the two ministries in addressing particular cases of private weapon owners who might pose a risk.

178.Women rights organizations noted in this regard the lack of structured interface between the MoWaSA and the FAD for information sharing regarding firearms license applicants and the lack of obligation to conduct welfare background examinations for every applicant. The organizations also noted the lack of training for social workers on their legal duty to report potential threat from a license applicant.

179.The AASW: starting in October 2023, several multi-sectoral round tables were convened with representatives from government ministries, local authorities, public bodies, and relevant NGOs, to address the impacts of the war on women. Topics included: impacts on teenage girls at-risk, women’s needs during wartime, effects on women’s health and employment rights, socio-economic impacts, including on single mothers, wives of drafted IDF personnel, and more. A specific round table, focused on the issue of wider distribution of firearms licenses and the possible remedies to the threat posed. The responses examined were discussed with the MoNS in order to enhance oversight and control over personal private weapon holders, broadening the support for organizations operating in the field of domestic violence prevention, and legal aid for victims of crime.

Questions 13 and 14(a)

180.Regarding the applicability of the Convention to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip see Q.2 above.

Question 14(b)

Demolition of Illegal Structures in the Eastern neighborhoods of Jerusalem (ENoJ)

181.Illegal construction harms the local population, as it disregards planning policies and parameters that are necessary to ensure quality of life, the welfare of the population and public needs. Enforcement measures against illegal structures are adopted in accordance with legal guarantees and following due process, subject to judicial review and the right to appeal.

182.The authorities exercise discretion in implementing demolition orders and prioritize the demolition of illegal structures that pose an obstacle to city development, such as those blocking sewer pipes, planned school or public clinic, access to roads, etc.

183.For recent statistics and information on see the Annex (Q.14(b)).

184.Construction permits: According to information provided by the Jerusalem municipality’s city Planning branch in January 2024, between 2020 and 2024 a total of 5,444 new housing units received building permits in the ENoJ.

Question 14(c)

185.Regarding the applicability of the Convention to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip see Q.2 above.

186.With regard to the Bedouin population in the Negev: Approximately 300,000 Bedouins reside in the Negev desert area. About 75% live in urban and suburban centers, that have been legally planned and constructed. The remaining 25% reside in hundreds of unauthorized and unregulated clusters. The clusters spanning roughly over 500 sq/km, obstruct urban expansion in the greater Negev area and hinder the common good of the Bedouin population.

187.The Government’s current policy is to provide the Bedouin population with residential alternatives in recognized localities. This is achieved either by on-the-spot regulation of existing unauthorized villages, expanding the jurisdiction of nearby recognized villages in near vicinity, or by encouraging relocation through substantial financial and/or land incentives. Note that a large majority of those currently residing in unauthorized areas will likely be able to remain in their current locations within regularized localities without relocating elsewhere. That being said, unauthorized villages with no feasible planning prospects cannot be regulated.

188.For additional information on planning for the Bedouin population, public participation and recent GR, see the Annex, (Q.14(c)).

Question 15

189.In 2021, Israel joined the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings –becoming the first country outside of Europe which is not a member of the Council of Europe to do so. Israel’s accession to this convention solidifies its strong commitment to fighting this abhorrent phenomenon, and provides important tools to advance these efforts.

190.The National Anti-Trafficking Unit (“NATU”) operating pursuant to GR No. 63 from May 21, 2006, coordinates between different government bodies and NGOs in combatting human trafficking for all purposes.

191.NATU develops regular communication channels between governmental entities and NGOs, and maintains contact with international bodies. NATU aims to assist the GoI in setting up an anti-trafficking policy as well as protecting victims of trafficking; advancing legislation, regulations and procedures combatting human trafficking; identifying new patterns of trafficking and act to eradicate them; tackle problems while they are arising and minimize risks factors; initiating awareness raising campaigns, professional trainings, research studies and different projects.

192.On December 31, 2018, the Knesset legislated the Prohibition of Consumption of Prostitution Services Law (Temporary Provision) 5779-2018, which prohibits the consumption of sexual services. For additional information see Israel’s follow-up information to the concluding observations on its sixth periodic report (CEDAW/C/ISR/FCO/6 (14.1.2020) para. 29–31). On June 6, 2025, the Knesset extended this temporary provision for an additional five years and it is currently valid until July 2030.

193.Between 2021 and 2024, 5,104 fines were given to consumers of prostitution. The Israeli legislation includes a corrective workshop as an alternative to a fine –in which consumers learn about the harms involved in prostitution. In 2023, 26 consumers requested to participate in those workshops and seven (7) workshops were held.

Question 15(a)

194.In 2022, GR No. 1862 was adopted, approving the National Anti-Trafficking Implementation Plan for 2022‍–2026, including several budgeted and concrete steps in relevant fields, and budgeted research. This GR include: the launch of a revised victim recognition mechanism, expansion of social workers authorized to identify, support and assist TIP victims in broad geographical span, allocation of additional resources and dedicated manpower in the MoNS, Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) and the Ministry of Labor (MoL), and increasing all prosecution efforts. For information on TIP protection and prevention measures see the Annex, (Q.15(a) and (b)).

Question 15(b)

195.Hereinafter are two notable examples of international cooperation conducted by the NATU:

196.Jordan: In order to better promote the prevention and joint investigation and prosecution against the perpetrators, NATU initiated an avenue for cooperation and dialogue with Jordanian counterparts from the Police, the NC and members of the Prosecution, who met with the representatives from the Israeli PTCU, the NC and Prosecutors, for a two-day seminar in the Hague, together with members of EUROJUST, EUROMED and the Dutch authorities, in May 2023. A second meeting was postponed due to the war and lack of engagement by the Jordanian side.

197.Sweden: In March 2023, Israel was contacted by the Swedish Government Inquiry with the remit to develop an exit program for victims of prostitution and human trafficking for sexual purposes, wishing to learn about Israeli exit programs from prostitution and trafficking. NATU and the MoWaSA and MoH coordinators on trafficking and prostitution spoke with the Swedish representatives, and presented Israel’s frameworks in detail.

Question 15(c)

198.As part of the inter-ministerial program for the treatment and fight against prostitution, the MoWaSA participates in a number of programs and initiatives aimed at rehabilitating populations in the circle of prostitution, and helping them integrate into the community and rebuild their lives. Among these programs: are Ha'Lev (“The Heart”) Care Settings program aimed to provide a safe space to girls, boys and young men and women who are on the continuum of prostitution and in situations of sexual exploitation; Day and evening centers and the Holistic guidance center. For information on these programs please see the Annex (Q.15(c)).

Question 16(a)

199.For information of women in national elections, please see Q.1 above.

200.As of December 2023, only 15 of 257 heads of local authorities were women (5.8%). Following the conclusion of the recent local elections in local authorities in which they were conducted (due to the war (including a second round)), as of March 2024, only 15 of 242 heads of local authorities were women (5.8%). In Nine (9) local authorities women hold a majority, however, in 77 local authorities there is no female representation at all. Please note that in the local elections held in February and March (second round) 2024, elections in several local authorities, primarily in southern and northern Israel, were postponed due to the war.

201.In 2023, towards the elections for the local authorities scheduled for October 31st 2023, the members of the forum of the female heads of local authorities in Israel, launched a campaign calling women to: “Run for it”. The campaign, encouraged women to run for head positions in local authorities, emphasizing their abilities and qualifications to run for office and highlighting the importance of electing women to decision-making positions.

202.Additionally, in 2023, there were 55 women serving as DG of local authorities (out of 257 local authorities) (21.4%).

203.For further information see the Annex (Q.16(a)).

Question 16(b)

204.Women representation in the Civil Service –As of 2024, women comprised 63% of CS employees and 46.1% of senior positions in the CS. In 2023, while only 39% of the applicants for vacant senior positions were women, women were subsequently selected for 48% of these positions. In this regard, please see GR No. 454 above (Q.10).

205.Foreign Service: The MFA cadet course and appointments by its appointment committees are conducted in accordance with the duties outlined by the CSC under the responsibility of the Director for Gender Equality. Tenders for these positions apply to both women and men, and in the Ministry’s cadet courses (both administrative and political) there is equal representation of men and women. Notably, in the last five courses the rate of women was higher (between 50%-60%), and in the last two courses, 4 of the female cadets were from the Druze community.

206.Women representation in the Court System: The majority of judges in Israel today are women.

207.Until recently, and for a period of eight (8) years a women served as the President of the Israeli Supreme Court, marking her the second female president of the Supreme Court. As of June 2025, the Israeli Supreme Court includes four (4) female justices, eight (8) male justices, including the Court’s President and one (1) female registrar.

208.For information on women representation in the Courts System, the IDF and the MoE, see the Annex (Q.16(b)).

Question 16(c)

209.Section 6 of the Rabbinical Judges Law 5715-1955, determines the composition of the Committee for the Appointment of Rabbinical Judges. In 2013, the law was amended to include a female rabbinical claimant as a member of the committee. In 2021, the law was further amended to add another female rabbinical claimant. Consequently, the current legal requirement mandates that at least five (5) of the 13 members of the committee must be women. For related Case-law, see the Annex (Q.16(c)).

Question 16(d)

210.In this regard please also see Q.4 and Q.10, above.

211.Section 6C1(b) of the Women Equal Rights Law states that: “In a Government inspection committee, a public committee and a team appointed by the Government, the prime minister, a minister, a deputy minister or a Government ministry’s director general, appropriate expression shall be given, under the circumstances to the matter of representation of women from various population groups”. Due to remaining gaps, the AASW has created a manual database of highly qualified women, to assists the CS in recruiting suitable candidates.

Question 16(e)

Question 17

212.Regarding the applicability of the Convention to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip see Q.2 above.

213.Israel does not operate or maintain any mechanism designed to limit the activity of NGOs in general, or women’s organizations in particular in the international arena, except in cases where the organization is involved in terrorist or criminal activities, as defined by Israeli law.

214.Furthermore, Israel engages in ongoing cooperation in the international arena with NGOs working in the field of women’s rights and gender equality, including organizations that criticize the Government in other contexts. Since the beginning of the war, the Government has cooperated with various such organizations.

Question 18

215.The Citizenship and Entry into Israel Law (Temporary Provision) 5763-2003 was enacted in July 2003 in accordance with a 2002 GR that was adopted in response to a difficult and grim security reality of a murderous terrorist attacks targeting Israeli citizens and residents approximately two decades ago.

216.The law was intended for a distinct security purpose, and applies to both men and women, while providing certain easements for women in obtaining status in Israel alongside the law’s existing limitations. The ongoing security reality between Israel and the Palestinian terrorist organizations has justified the extension of the law over the years. The law has been reviewed and approved by the Supreme Court. For additional information see Q.22(a) below and the Annex (Q.18).

Question 19

217.Regarding the applicability of the Convention to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip see Q.2 above.

Question 19(a)

218.For the past 10 years, the Gender Equality Unit at the MoE has been conducting gender equality programs for grades 6–12 in schools of the Arab population (including Bedouin and Druze populations). In Arab society, Arab female pupils lead in the percentage of those eligible for matriculation certificates. In Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects, Arab female pupils lead in the percentage of those studying most of the science and technology subjects at the level of 5 study units. Additionally, the majority of Arab students in higher education institutions are women, with 67% studying at under-graduate level, 75% at graduate level and 65% at post-graduate level. In 2023/24 school-year, two lecturers from the Arab community, one of them with a doctorate degree, were recruited as counselors, in order to promote the integration of academic studies during the high school period among Arab female and male pupils (“The Academia in High School Program”).

219.The MoE promotes women’s participation in STEM fields. To this end, the Gender Equality Unit conducts several programs and seminar training days in collaboration with the Science and Technology Instruction Supervision Department to train teachers about gender-sensitive teaching. Additionally, this Department has developed an online education database for teachers, aimed at the advancement of girls in STEM fields.

220.Additional programs are run in collaborations with the Weizmann Institute of Science and the Committee for the Advancement of Women in Science and Technology in Education. During the 2022–2023 school year, approximately 2,500 elementary and secondary school teachers received training through various frameworks. The key objectives of these programs are to increase the rate of girls choosing to study STEM subjects at the level of five (5) study units, increase the rate of girls graduating in STEM subjects at such level; combine resources and, encourage collaboration between government ministries and civil society and enhance mentorship opportunities for female pupils to inspire them to pursue careers in STEM fields.

221.For further information on matriculation eligibility rates, including in scientific-technological subjects by gender, see the Annex (Q.19(a)).

222.For additional information on the Division for Gifted and Outstanding Pupils, see the Annex (Q.19(a)).

Question 19(b)

223.According to CBS’s data from 2023, the rate of women in academia continues to rise. Approximately 60.3% of the students in higher education institutions are women. Also, between the 2005/6 and 2023/4 academic years, the rate of women in universities increased across most fields, both among total academic staff and total senior staff. For additional information on female students in higher education institutions and on the representation of women among higher education staff see the Annex (Q.19(b)).

Question 19(c)

224.The MoE’s Study Books Approval Branch is responsible for approving of all textbooks and teaching materials, including digital and online study environments, for all education institutions in Israel, in both Hebrew and Arabic. The branch ensures that all study books and materials are up-to-date, and is also responsible to review all of them for both general and subject specific educational content. For additional information see the Annex (Q.19(c)).

Question 19(d)

225.Regarding the applicability of the Convention to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip see Q.2 above.

226.The MoE is working intensively with the Jerusalem municipality to reduce the shortage of classrooms in official schools and kindergartens in the Eastern Neighborhoods of Jerusalem (ENoJ). Thus, every request to allocate a budget for a project in ENoJ, is given special priority and precedence within the existing budget. In 2018, GR No. 3790 allocated 67 Million NIS (18.3 million USD) for renting buildings for educational purposes (both for official education and recognized non‑official education teaching the Israeli curriculum) within a five-year plan (until 2023). In 2023, GR No. 880, established a second five-year plan (until 2028), allocating additional 45 Million NIS (12.5 Million USD) for renting buildings. Over the past two years, the Special Education Division has opened two additional Technological Education schools in ENoJ and two education centers (elementary education and complementary studies) for disconnected youth.

227.The Jerusalem Municipality is striving to reduce the gaps and replace the rented and temporary classrooms with new buildings.

228.For related case-law and figures see the Annex (Q.19(d)).

Question 19(e)

229.The MoE has a clear policy on dealing with cases of bullying, sexual violence and harassment, published in the relevant DG’s circulars, according to which, the educational frameworks apply throughout the country.

230.For additional information on the MoE’s DG’s guidelines and circulars, prevention of sexual harassment, MoE’s relevant programs and materials, on protection of vulnerable pupils, annual events held by the MoE and detailed information and data included in the annual reports of higher education and high schools, including: number of reporting institutions, number of applications/complaints, individuals filing complains, primary reasons cited in the complaints and handling of complaints, see the Annex (Q.19(e)).

Question 20(a)

231.With regard to subsections 20(a),(c) and (d), several branches within the MoL address the relevant fields, primarily, the Population Employment Administration. This administration employs various tools and programs to promote the integration and advancement of women into quality employment. This is done through the various programs targeting specific populations: the Arab population (including the Bedouin, Druze and Circassian), the ultra-Orthodox population, citizens of Ethiopian descent, women aged 50 and above, young women, as well as cross populations (horizontal) programs, such as a plan for to improve the integration of women in the high-tech sector.

232.For tools utilized by the MoL for this purpose and information on quality employment and programs operated by the MoL and related data, see the Annex (Q.20(a)).

233.CSC: The CSC Gender Equality Division, in collaboration with an inter-ministerial team defined rules for the implementing a “work from home” pilot program within the CS. Launched in 2016, the pilot enabled afternoon remote work for female and male employees who are parents, to hold intermediate and senior positions, and met the criteria outlined in Guideline 1/2016. The program ended in 2021 when Commissioner Guidelines No. 3.3 and 3.4 were published, drawing insights from the pilot program and from the emergency Work-From-Home arrangements established during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Guidelines introduced flexible working arrangements, including provisions for over-time work which contributed to gender-parity by minimizing gender-pay gaps, improving work-life balance and enhancing managerial flexibility. As a result, the updated Commissioner Guideline No. 3.6 (May 9, 2023), allowed all employees to work from home one day per week, with over-time hours worked remotely taken into consideration. Additionally, the Guideline allowed all employees who are parents (men and women), to complete their standard daily working hours (8 or 8.5 hours) from home up to three (3) days per week, subject to the flexible conditions delineated in the Guideline.

234.For related case-law, see the Annex (Q.22(a)).

Question 20(b)

235.Salary gaps –Currently during the ongoing war, there is decrease in the rate of participation of young Arab women in the labor market. Additionally, due to the war, there has been a decrease in the incomes of the wives of reservists, as they are the sole parents at home. Furthermore, approximately 180,000 people have become internally displaced, evacuated from their homes, both men and women. Of these, about 60,000 are of working age, and a higher number of women were unemployed or on un-paid leave (according to the employment service data). Therefore, women were facing greater challenges than men in terms of employment. These difficulties also affect salary components, such as pension payments and more.

236.In order to promote wage equality, measures were utilized on several levels: Amendment No. 24 to the Equal Employment Opportunity Law 2024, determined that alongside the grounds for discrimination stipulated in the law (for example: discrimination based on sex, race, personal status, etc.), there will also be a ground for discrimination based on their or their spouse’s reserve service. This, in order to protect the many women whose spouses were in extended reserve service.

237.Also, GR No. 550 of October 2021 titled “The economic plan to reduce disparities in Arab population until the year 2026”, sets, among others, employment targets for 2026 for the Arab population, with an employment target of 46.3% set for women aged 25–64.

238.In addition, Amendment No. 6 to the Equal Pay Law, adopted on 25.8.2020, is intended to provide an additional tool for the employee to exercise the right to equal pay. In accordance with the amendment, various bodies are required to produce annual reports detailing the wage gaps in the workplace between men and women, with one of the reports being a public report to be published, including on the employer’s website if it has one, and will include general data as specified in the law, in order to ensure transparency and reduce wage gaps in the labor market. With regards to financial sanctions, the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission is legally authorized to examine complaints and to intervene in legal proceedings if it deems such intervention necessary.

Question 20(c)

239.Regarding the applicability of the Convention to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip see Q.2 above.

240.Employment: The ‘Ryan’ employment center located in the ENoJ, develops training programs and courses to encourage and increase women’s employment. These include Hebrew courses and conversational skills, training courses for the labor market, guidance and support for quality employment placement, vouchers for professional studies, assistance for women and men with academic education and more. Additionally, the ‘Otzma’ (strength) centers operating in the ENoJ, focus on promotion of women’s employment, reducing the number of families facing poverty, and ensuring the exhaustion of rights. In recent years, welfare services in the ENoJ have expanded significantly, both in terms of the number of social services departments (from 4 to 9 departments) and the quality of personnel serving the service recipients.

Question 20(d)

241.GR No. 1852 (September 2022) entitled “A National Plan to Increase and Develop Skilled Human Capital for the High-Tech and Innovation Industry and Integrate Underrepresented Groups”, includes reference to women in a variety of areas, including education. Accordingly, a work plan was compiled to promote the number of pupils attending scientific subjects and English across all ages, with an emphasis on the Arab population, women, and Israelis of Ethiopian descent; in the field of promoting informal programs as well as innovation, science, and technology for students, with an emphasis on women of all populations. Additionally, this resolution included a unique reference to promoting gender equality in the high-tech field, through gender-minded practices in the innovation and high-tech industry and encouraging a culture that promotes women, aimed at increasing the number of women in technical positions to 36% by the end of 2026, This, through removing barriers to women’s integration into technological roles, utilizing activities to encourage the adoption of policies that support the promotion of women in the high-tech industry. For additional information, please see the Annex (Q.20(d)).

Question 20(e)

Arab society (including the Bedouin, Druze and Circassian populations)

242.CBS information regarding the Government’s employment goals in 2021, shows that in the fourth quarter of 2021, the employment rate of Arab women reached 40.5%, a new positive record (compared to 36.4% in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic and 37.4% in 2019 before the pandemic). This increase is primarily attributed to the continuous improvement in the education level of Arab women.

243.“Ryan” centers: . The MoL “Ryan” employment and guidance centers include 110 centers spread across the country, designed to reduce economic and social gaps and promote and empower both men and women in the Arab population (including the Bedouin, Druze and Circassian populations) in the fields of employment and training. More than 70% of the program’s participants are women. In 2023, 21,756 participants received services by Ryan centers and more than 50% found suitable employment.

Ultra-Orthodox women

244.According to CBS figures, the employment rate of ultra-Orthodox women reached an all-time high in 2024, reaching about 88.1%, higher than the employment rate among non-Orthodox Jewish women (82.4%).

245.The employment rate of Arab women in 2024 also reached an all-time high of 46.1%, marking a steady increase since 2020. Thus, among these two groups, considered government employment target groups, the recovery from the Covid-19 epidemic has ended, and growth has resumed.

Question 20(f)

246.The Gender Equality Division at the CSC has made the integration of gender awareness and the prevention of sexual harassment within the CS a top priority, with the aim of ensuring a safe organizational climate and protecting all CS employees. To achieve this purpose, the role of the gender equality supervisors is crucial. Their responsibilities include preventing sexual harassment across the various ministries, local authorities and units; collecting initial complaints, accompanying and assisting complainants throughout the procedure; and serving as the point of contact between the complainants and the management. The supervisors are carefully selected due to the importance of this role.

247.For information on activities undertaken by the Division to combat sexual harassment in the workplace and additional information, see the Annex (Q.20(a)-(f)).

248.Women comprise about 22% of all IPS staff, and 35% among officers. Please also see replies to Q.4(c),(d) and Q.12(f) above. For information on Women in the IPS, on complaints filed by IPS staff against other staff member and subsequent actions, see the Annex (Q.20(f)).

249.ISA: The ISA considers it crucial to combat and address sexual harassment issues in order to provide its employees with a safe and pleasant work environment. For data on sexual harassment at the CSC and information on measures implemented by the ISA to combat sexual harassment, see the Annex (Q.20(f)).

Question 21

250.Regarding the applicability of the Convention to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip see Q.2 above. For relevant GRs, see the Annex (Q.21)

Budgetary Investment and Major Policy in the Periphery and Arab population

251.The MoH has made significant efforts to promote healthcare services for the Arab population, resulting in positive changes in health indicators in Israeli society over the past decade. The periphery in Israel receives the same level of health services as the rest of the country, which includes universal health care and full access to all of the services granted in the health basket through HMOs. Israel is a small country and therefore every resident is close to a major hospital.

252.In the government budget passed in November 2021, three (3) Billion NIS (930 Million USD) were allocated to the Arab population. This includes GR No. 550”, which directs 650 Million NIS (200 Million USD) toward strengthening healthcare and health services for the Arab population. According to this GR, public health policy is to be provided “in accordance with the principles of justice, equality and mutual responsibility”.

253.The MoH will formulate an action plan and allocate further dedicated resources to promote linguistic accessibility in the healthcare system. Accordingly, starting in 2024, 10 Million NIS (2.8 Million USD) will be allocated to the base budget of the Senior Public Service Division for this purpose. These funds will be used to develop dedicated professional and managerial infrastructure, expand the Ministry’s responses, and support HMOs actions.

254.For additional information on budgetary investment and policy in the periphery and Arab population and on healthcare services in the ENoJ and for the Bedouin population, see the Annex (Q.21).

Question 22(a)

255.For relevant case-law, see the Annex (Q.22(a)).

256.The MoWaSA –The Ministry provides protection services to women without legal status who are victims of violence and face life threatening danger, offering shelter within facilities designated for victims of violence. These services fall under the responsibility of out-of-home care programs. The same applies to girls provided with protection and treatment services according to procedure 100, like any minor at risk who is defined as a “minor-in-need”.

257.Additionally, the Ministry has allocated a dedicated budget to several local authorities to support women victims of violence who are not subject to removal from Israel.

258.For additional details on services operated and provided by the MoWaSA for the relevant populations, see the Annex (Q.22(a)).

259.Urgent care: Pursuant to Section 3(b) of the Patients ’ Rights Law 1996-5756, all persons, without precondition, are entitled to urgent medical care in a situation of medical emergency and must be treated by medical staff in health facilities across Israel.

260.On July 2024, The National Health Insurance Regulations (Arrangements Regarding Registration with a Health Fund and Provision of Health Services for Populations Protected under Non-Refoulment Policy) 5784-2024, came into effect. The new regulation established a publicly subsidized health insurance arrangement for eligible populations with no legal civil status.

261.Under the current arrangement, coverage is provided, inter alia, to the following populations:

•Children that have one parent to whom the non-refoulement policy applies and the other parent legally resides in Israel, but are not entitled to health coverage;

•Children of a migrant worker who reside in Israel with a valid 2(a)(2) visa;

•Children who were transferred by the MoWaSA from parental custody to out-of-home care.

262.Children previously covered under the “Meuhedet” arrangement and who settled prior debts to the HMO, may also continue their health coverage under the new regulations, subject to certain provisions. Following a pending petition (H.C.J. 2597/24, Physicians for Human Rights v. Minister of Health) that challenged the criteria according to which coverage is granted, a special government team was appointed to review the current criteria in special circumstances and its work is undergoing. The team’s final conclusions will be presented to the Court upon completion.

Question 22(b)

263.Due to their specific characteristics and needs, and in accordance with the law, women are held separately from male prisoners, in women-only prisons, in a separate wing or in separate cells within other prison facilities. Measures are taken to ensure that female prisoners do not see, speak to, or come into contact with male prisoners. Moreover, in IPS transportation vehicles and detention cells at courts, women are completely separated from men. The physical environment of female prisoners is adapted to their unique needs, including the provision of hygiene products, such as feminine hygiene items. Searches of female prisoners are conducted exclusively by female wardens.

264.Female prisoners are held in the IPS facilities of “Neve Tirzah” (incarcerated in relation to non-security criminal offences), and “Damon” (security-related incarceration). The IPS medical system provides comprehensive health services to prisoners in accordance with the Commission’s order No. 04.44.00 concerning “The medical treatment of prisoners”. This order ensures that prisoners are entitled to the medical treatment necessary to maintain their health and appropriate supervision conditions as required by an IPS physician. The IPS provides the prisoners, including female prisoners, with health services covered in accordance with the requirements by the National Health Insurance Law 5754-1994. These services are delivered based on medical considerations and subject to practical aspects unique to the IPS, and the characteristics of the prison population, all without compromising the prisoner’s health.

265.For detailed information on health care provided to female prisoners, please see the Annex (Q.22(b)).

Question 22(c)

Protection of the Negev Bedouin population in the context of the Iron Swards war

266.Alerts –The selective Alert System is activated in designated warning areas (about 1,800 covering the entire State), including Bedouin localities.

267.For information on alert areas, sirens, shielding, additional budgets and related case-law, please see the Annex (Q.22(c)).

Compensation for the destruction of illegal construction

268.Unauthorized construction by some members of the Bedouin population is carried out without the necessary plans according to the Planning and Building Law 5725-1965, and without pre-approval from the planning authorities. This creates significant challenges in terms of providing services to the residents of these unauthorized villages, as well as posing risks to the residents due to the nature of such structures.

269.Israel cannot overlook this violation of planning and zoning rules and regulations and is therefore compelled to issue demolition orders for these unauthorized structures. Enforcement actions are conducted only against structures built after 2012, unless a legal solution of regularization of the relevant structure has been reached. For additional information see the Annex (Q.22(c). Initially, a warning is granted to the person who constructed the structure, allowing them the opportunity to challenge the demolition order through the judicial process. If the person fails to overturn the demolition order, he/she is required to demolish the unauthorized structure. Only if the individual fails to carry out the demolition shall the authorities intervene. In cases of structures built before 2012, enforcement activities are carried out if suitable and available housing alternatives for the residents are in place. All enforcement actions are conducted in compliance with the law. In regard to 2021-2024, about 90% of the illegal structures demolished by the State were not residential buildings, but rather makeshift structures such as animal sheds, shipping containers, fences, etc.

270.That said, Section 6.5, mark C of the Israel Land Council’s resolution file, titled “Providing benefits to residents of the Bedouin Diaspora population in the Negev who are settling their residence”, stipulates that, under certain conditions, developed residential lots may be provided free of charge to Bedouin residents living in unauthorized structures who settle their disputes and are settling in these areas, as well as financial benefits. These benefits include up to 250,000 NIS (68,500 USD) and an addition sum of 100,000 NIS (27,400USD) to a person who served in the IDF, in addition to other financial benefits.

Question 22(d)

271.Water Supply to Authorized Villages and Localities: Residents of authorized Bedouin villages and localities receive regular water supply from the local water supplier and charged in accordance to standard rates for domestic use. The water is supplied to the customer’s home through central systems (local or national systems), and their quality, according to all the samples, is excellent and meets the drinking water criteria.

272.For information on water supply to unauthorized Bedouin villages and development of sewage systems, see the Annex (Q.22(d)).

Development of Road Infrastructure

273.The Government and the Ministry of Transportation and Road Safety (MoTRS) continue to promote the development of intra-municipal transportation services as part of its general policy to promote public transportation accessibility to the public, and specifically to the Arab and Bedouin populations.

274.Between 2020 and 2024, the National Authority for Public Transportation in the MoTRS significantly improved public transportation availability between the Bedouin localities in the Negev to population centers, schools and higher education institutions.

275.As part of the MoTRS activity, additional public transportation bus stations were established both within the Bedouin localities and on the main roads, and 14 new public transportation lines were launched. Also, the frequency of many other lines was increased by about 60,000 km and about 2,500 bus rides per week.

276.For additional information on public transportation, including infrastructure and bus lines, see the Annex (Q.22(d)).

Question 22(e)

277.Regarding the applicability of the Convention to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip see Q.2 above.

Inclusive education

278.In 2023, approximately 178,099 pupils were eligible for special education services attended the general education system.

279.In the ENoJ, 7,779 (7.4%) pupils were eligible for special education services.

280.For detailed information on ENoJ’s pupils, see the Annex (Q.22(e)).

281.According to the Special Education Law and MoE policy, special education services including those for children with disabilities in general education, are provided free of charge. Such services also include special education teacher, therapeutic services and assistance.

282.For information on individual access adjustments, adjustments in higher education institutions and programs and activities encouraging social accessibility and active participation of PWD, see the Annex, Q.22(e)).

283.Health care: Designated centers were established to address the healthcare needs of women with disabilities . The Noam Center in Sheba Hospital, for example, is dedicated to provide treatment, rehabilitation, and health services for women with disabilities. The center offers an integrated approach, bringing together a multidisciplinary team of experts from various fields, including rehabilitation, gynecology, bone health, urology, neuro-urology, pain management, and sexuality counseling. The facility and its services are fully accessible to all. It is designed to be physically accessible and all equipment and medical procedures, such as gynecological examinations, are carried out in a comfortable and accessible manner. The center functions as a “one stop shop” – offering medical care and interventions, as well as all the necessary consultations and assessments in a single day and at one location. This streamlined approach improves efficiency and reduces the challenges of coordination, administration and accessibility. The center primarily serves women with complex medical conditions and physical disabilities, including but not limited to MS, CP, muscle diseases, stroke survivors, spinal cord injuries, and more.

284.In addition to medical services, the center offers counseling on sexuality and reproductive health, provided by a counselor with a physical disability herself.

285.Another such clinic in the same hospital, the “Eve Clinic”, focuses on mental health services for women, and offers services for women experiencing hormonal changes due to menstruation, fertility treatments, pregnancy, post-partum, stillbirth or menopause.

286.Additionally, a coalition of women’s health organizations was established under the Knesset Health Committee. This coalition seeks to promote awareness and designated policies for the unique health issues faced by women, including women and girls with physical and mental disabilities.

287.Social services: Social services in Israel are provided to all persons regardless of gender and on an equal basis. According to the provisions and principles of the newly enacted Social Services for Persons with Disabilities Law, such services are provided and tailored to the specific needs of each individual. If a person’s needs include gender-related considerations, these are taken into account when deciding which services they will receive.

288.Shelters for Victims of Domestic Violence are considered public service and facilities, hence they must comply with accessibility regulations. For further data see the Annex (Q.22(e)).

289.The MoWaSA makes significant efforts aimed at preventing harm to women with disabilities. Six centers across the country provide sexual-social relationship counseling, education and therapy. These centers offer training activities for staff on appropriate conduct in the field, counseling for women and couples on a variety of issues, and detection of unusual incidents by social workers and therapy when required.

290.For additional information on education, employment, health care, and social rights of PWD, including women and girls, please see Israel’s Reply the CRPD Committee, May 2022.

291.Public Housing: As of January 2024, 29,998 women reside in public housing. Of these, 7,564 are independent women or single parents and 22,424 are single women (without children or with children over 21).

292.Furthermore, there are specific programs that provide rent assistance to certain populations, including victims of domestic violence, provided they hold a valid residence permit of any kind.

293.Employment: The MoL’s Headquarters for the Integration of PWD in the employment market operates programs maximizing their personal potential and abilities and raising their standard of living, wages and working conditions. The headquarters provides services according to the law and also develops and operates various programs based on an assessment of the labor market’s characteristics, employer needs as well as the functional abilities of PWD. These programs are developed using accumulated knowledge in Israel and internationally, in cooperation with relevant government ministries, NGOs and academic institutions that promote the rights of PWD.

294.For additional information see the Annex (Q.22(e)).

Question 23

295.Women participation in decision-making processes on climate change adaptation –In recent years, the Ministry of Environmental Protection has been headed by three female ministers, and until 2023 the DG of MoEP was also a woman. Additionally, in 2021–2022, women headed the four most important government ministries relating to climate change –the Ministries of Environmental Protection, Energy and National Infrastructure, Economy and Transportation.

296.Environmental protection and climate change: An analysis of sustainable transportation from a gender perspective reveals that these initiatives will benefit the entire population, but women are expected to benefit at a higher rate. This is largely due to the fact that women generally own fewer cars and tend to use public transportation more frequently. In recent years, Israel has invested significant resources in promoting public and less-polluting transportation, including, connecting the railway system to the electric grid, encouraging the use of electric cars, and paving additional bicycle lanes. Moreover, in August 2023, the Metropolitan Mass Transit System (MMTS) inaugurated its first underground light railway line, which serves as the backbone of the Tel Aviv-Jaffa metropolitan area’s mass transit system. This line passes through some of the most crowded areas in central Israel and serves approximately 234,000 people each day, thus reducing reliance on personal vehicles, decreasing air pollution and contributing to efforts against climate change.

297.For information on the Department of Environmental Quality at the Federation of Local Authorities in Israel, see the Annex (Q.23).

298.See also Q.4 above, regarding the NSC’s public advisory committee. The Committee noted in its report, that an infrastructural change is required in the way the policies are shaped and decisions are made in emergency ministerial committees. Based on relevant data, the committee recommended promoting a unique approach to integrating gender-sensitive thinking in times of emergencies, that will hopefully lead to improvements, so that future emergency the decision-making process will be more gender-sensitive and more attentive to the different needs of men and women, ultimately enhancing the social resilience in times of crisis.

Question 24

299.Addressing divorce refusals: The Rabbinical Courts Law (Implementation of Divorce Judgments) 5755-1955, authorizes Rabbinical courts to issue various types of restraining orders against a man or woman who refuses to comply with divorce judgments.

300.In recent years, the courts’ effective utilization of a variety of legal and religious tools in the fight against divorce refusals, including religious, social and economic sanctions imposed by the court according to religious law resulted in a significant decrease in the number of divorce refusals.

301.Measures taken to harmonize family law to ensure that civil laws take precedence over religious laws: On July 19, 2017, the HCJ ruled in H.C.J. 919/15, Anonymous v. Anonymous, establishing that child support for children between the ages of 6–15 will be determined according to the parents’ relative financial abilities, and the length of stay. The father is no longer solely responsible for child support, as was in many cases until then, under the interpretation of Jewish religious law. The Court adopted the interpretation, according to which, both parents must take care of the needs of the minor.

302.On September 22, 2019, the HCJ ruled in H.C.J. 7628/17 Anonymous v. Anonymous, that the Rabbinical Courts do not have the authority to discuss minor alimony related to divorce claims according to Section 3 of the Rabbinical Courts Law (Marriage and Divorce) 5713-1953, and that the authority on this matter lies with the Family Matters Courts. The main essential purposes of this decision were to ensure the rights of children amidst parental conflict, prevent the use of child support as leverage in divorce cases (typically to the detriment the female spouse), and avoid a “power race” between parents regarding financial matters.

303.Note that in additional petitions filed in recent years, the Attorney General reiterated the position that one should not deviate from the judicial precedence, according to which child support cannot be included in divorce suit filed with the Rabbinical Court, and that children have the right to an independent claim.

304.Civil marriage: No material changes were made since 2017. Civil marriages abroad, including online marriages in the state of Utah (USA) through visual conference, allow couples who cannot or do not wish to marry according to religious law to institutionalize their relationship in Israel. For relevant case-law, see the Annex (Q.24).

305.Legal aid: legal aid is provided by the LAA in proceedings conducted in the Rabbinical Courts and other religious courts, in accordance with the economic eligibility and legal prospects criteria applicable in the Family Matters Courts. These proceedings are conducted according to the procedural rules of the respective courts.

306.The “Tender years presumption” – The “Tender years presumption”, has not been amended since its enactment. For additional information see the Annex (Q.24).

307.With regard to restriction on granting citizenship or long-term legal status to individuals from the West Bank and Gaza who marry Israeli citizens and residents, with only a few specified exceptions, see Q.18 above.

308.With regard to the prohibition of bigamy and polygamy. see Q.11(c) above.

Question 25

Measures taken to implement the Committee’s concluding observations

309.The Concluding Observations of UN Human Rights Treaty Bodies, including the CEDAW are translated into Hebrew, published and circulated to all relevant government bodies. For notable examples of implementation of the Committee’s concluding observations, see the Annex (Q.25).

Ratifications of human rights instruments

310.With regard to Israel’s accession to Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, please see Q.15, above.

311.Furthermore, in 2018, Israel ratified the 2014 Protocol to the International Labor Organization Forced Labor Convention of 1930. This ratification forms part of Israel’s continuous commitment to the international efforts to combat and eradicate all forms of modern slavery. The Protocol entered into force for Israel in October 2019.