Haredi Women and Academics Petition High Court Against Segregation Law

Six Haredi women and 10 academics petitioned the High Court on Thursday to strike down or restrict the newly approved law expanding gender-separated higher education. The amendment allows the Council for Higher Education to approve separate programs for men and women in bachelor's, master's and doctoral studies, including for religious reasons. Petitioners argue it removes safeguards set by the court in 2021, including limits to Haredi bachelor's programs, classroom-only separation and protection for women lecturers. Supporters say the law broadens access while respecting religious lifestyles and does not compel anyone to study separately.