Israel’s Declaration of Independence guarantees equality to women in social and political rights.
The founders of Israel had seen first-hand discrimination and persecution and were determined to ensure equality and respect to all its citizens.
As early as 1951 the Women’s Equal Rights Law was passed. Israeli Courts have had to work hard to balance the rights of women with the beliefs of the many religions who live and practice their right to religious beliefs in Israel. In 1992 The Basic Law: Human Dignity and Liberty helped to further protect the rights of women as well as the LGBT community.
Women in Israel have reached the highest levels in the Judiciary and the Civil Service. They have served as generals in the IDF, they serve as CEOs in listed business, won the highest medals for bravery and as early as 1969, led the Country when Golda Meir served as Prime Minister.
Israel is surrounded by countries where women are treated as second class citizens; where they need permission to leave the home, are banned from holding public or business offices and even not permitted to drive.
Israel is the only Country in the Middle East where being gay is not a crime but is actually celebrated. Whilst homosexuality is punishable by death in Iran, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia amongst others, in Israel the LGBT community is protected by law. Gay Pride festivals take place in Tel Aviv and Haifa every year and are attended by people from all walks of life as a celebration of tolerance, diversity and love.
