Bill That Calls For Adequate Representation of Arabs in Governmental Employment Receives Initial Knesset Approval

A bill created by Hadash party MKS that advocates for the adequate representation of Arabs within government ministries and offices received initial approval on Wednesday with a vote of 44 to 8. The bill was introduced by three Hadash MKs that are currently part of the Joint List: Ayman Odeh, Aida Touma-Sliman and Ofer Cassif.

Hadash lawmakers: Ofer Cassif, Aida Touma-Sliman and Ayman Odeh (Photo: Al-Ittihad)

Arabs make up less than 1.5% of government employees as of 2019, according to a Joint List press release.

“There is no reason why all Arab citizens should not be adequately represented,” Joint List Chairman Ayman Odeh said. “This is a national minority of 20% of the population, which deserves adequate representation in the centers of decision-making and fair employment. It is another step forward in our struggle for equality.”