There are currently 430,000 students learning in Haredi Orthodox institutions. Haredim make up some 10 percent of the population. While the bill is largely viewed as political, the issue of just how families without a basic education will support themselves in the future is of great concern.
Debating the pros and cons of this very controversial issue were:
Rabbi Dov Habertal, a Haredi orthodox lawyer and journalist who welcomes the repeal of the law. He lectures in the University of Haifa Law Faculty and served in the past as the head of the office of Israel’s chief rabbi.
Tali Farkash, a Haredi orthodox journalist, who argues that no one ever asked Haredi families what kind of education they want for their children. She has launched a petition which has now drawn hundreds of signatories calling on the education minister to ensure that core subjects be offered in some Haredi educational institutions.
