Are paradigms on the employment of ultra-Orthodox in Israel shifting?

Employment data from the 2023 Central Bureau of Statistics show that the rate of employment among ultra-Orthodox men has risen to 55.5%, similar to the data published by IDI’s recently released 2023 statistical report on ultra-Orthodox society in Israel. Dr. Gilad Malach , head of the ultra-Orthodox in Israel program at IDI notes that “the increase in employment levels among Haredi men is significant as it comes after many years of stagnation. This change may be rooted in rising interest rates and the high cost of living in Israel. Almost half of Haredi households, and particularly young couples, have mortgage payments and the climb in interest rates affects them directly.

Even the current government subsidies cannot counteract the increase in the costs of living and household expenses.

The rise in employment rates may also be indicative of shifting social paradigms within Haredi society as more ultra-Orthodox find it legitimate to enter the workforce. A reality in which half of Haredi men are gainfully employed is a real change compared with two decades ago, and to a great extent, 55% employment rates mean that Haredi society is transforming from a ‘society of scholars’ into a society of working - scholars."

Find out more about contemporary ultra-Orthodox society in our annual statistical report here: https://bit.ly/4bsr0Bl