Emuna Movement Hosts Conference on Women's Political Leadership Ahead of Knesset Elections

The Emuna movement hosted a conference in Jerusalem on Tuesday focused on women's leadership ahead of the upcoming 26th Knesset elections, gathering female lawmakers and candidates from across the political spectrum. Participants debated women's representation in governance, the challenges of entering political life, and the nation's future direction.

Speaking with Maariv, attendees voiced frustration that their preferred parties frequently fail to adequately represent women's interests or address their specific needs. While many hoped elected officials would collaborate on women's rights regardless of partisan divides, they acknowledged that representation remains secondary to pressing national security and military draft concerns.

Moran Zer Katzenstein of the Democrats party criticized the partisan polarization of women's rights during the event. "The issue of women has somehow become left and right, and I do not understand it," she stated, warning that current right-wing governance trends risk reducing female representation in the legislature to single digits.

MK Pnina Tamano-Shata of Blue and White argued that political representation remains severely lacking, particularly in high-level negotiations. "Israel would not be where it is today without the egos of men driving us into a spiral," she said, urging women to reclaim leadership roles.

Reut Ben Haim, a candidate for Religious Zionism, addressed the draft law controversy, emphasizing her commitment to fighting for optimal conditions and recognition for frontline military families and reservists.

Dr. Nahumi Yefe of the Haredi Public party highlighted shifting perspectives within ultra-Orthodox society since October 7, advocating for collaborative societal repair between men and women.

Tair Edri, a candidate for Yashar!, outlined the party's four coalition conditions and argued that leaders in power during the October 7 massacre must resign, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

MK Sharren Haskel emphasized the systemic undervaluation of women's perspectives on security matters, sharing her personal challenges as a lawmaker and mother.

Emuna movement chair Yifat Sela concluded the conference by highlighting the courage required for women to enter politics, urging them to believe in their right to occupy decision-making spaces.