Is the state that sees us as partners with equal rights and status?

An opinion column by Anat Lev-Adler warns of the erosion of women's rights in Israel under conservative-religious governments. The author poses a central question ahead of the elections: will we choose a liberal and egalitarian state or a chauvinistic and halachic one. She cites concrete examples: the expansion of gender segregation in academia to master's and doctoral degrees, the opposition of outgoing Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to mixed military service, and Feiglin's declaration against funding gender studies at Tel Aviv University.

An opinion column by Anat Lev-Adler warns of a trend of erosion of women's rights and status in Israel under governments with a conservative religious worldview. The author poses a central question ahead of the Knesset elections: will the state be liberal and egalitarian, or chauvinistic and halachic. She cites concrete examples from the outgoing government: the expansion of gender segregation in academia to master's and doctoral degrees approved in July 2026; the opposition of outgoing Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich in February 2026 to mixed military service of men and women; and the declaration of Moshe Feiglin, his running mate, that the gender studies department at Tel Aviv University should not be funded. Lev-Adler argues that these steps, taken in the name of tradition and modesty, limit women's choices, education, earning potential, and influence. She warns of direct harm to career paths, as military service serves as a springboard for the future, and of a lack of female representation in decision-making centers. The author calls on women to remain vigilant and choose leaders who will ensure a liberal and egalitarian life, citing Simone de Beauvoir's warning that women's rights are never guaranteed, especially in regimes where political, religious, or military crises are routine.