Five members of the Council for Higher Education (MALAG) resigned earlier today in protest of the Knesset-approved law permitting gender segregation in advanced-degree programs, according to reports. The resignations deepen the ongoing controversy over the legislation.
Five members of the Council for Higher Education (MALAG) resigned today in protest of the gender-segregation law, the latest blow to the legislation that has sparked fierce opposition. The resignations, which emerged over the course of the morning, escalated a controversy that began with the law's approval earlier this month.
The Zioneer first reported at 11:02 Jerusalem that four members had resigned, citing N12. Minutes later, a fifth member joined, bringing the total to five, as reported by Yoeli Barim. N12 subsequently published the full resignation letter. At 11:02 Jerusalem, Prof. Yofi Tirosh, a leading petitioner against the law, welcomed the resignations but said she regretted they came only after the law was approved, urging MALAG and academic institutions to block its implementation.
The law, which permits gender-segregated study tracks in advanced-degree programs, was approved by the Knesset in early July. As The Zioneer reported on July 16, ten faculty members and six Haredi women petitioned the High Court of Justice against the law. The legislation has been debated in the Knesset Education Committee, with critics warning it would harm academic freedom and women's rights. Protests and resignations have followed, with the academic establishment expressing strong opposition.
The resignations leave the council's ability to function uncertain, and the law's implementation remains pending. It is not yet clear whether additional resignations will follow, or how the government and the council will respond to the growing protest.
5 developments
- DevelopingTen academics, six Haredi women petition High Court against gender-separate advanced degree law
- DevelopingKnesset Education Committee begins voting on academic gender segregation bill
- DevelopingMK Naama Lazimi removed from Knesset committee discussion on academic gender segregation bill
- DevelopingDeans of Israeli medical schools warn gender segregation bill endangers public health
Source and signal
- Internal intake