Empowering Women at Opposite Ends of the Political and Social Spectrum of Israeli Society

Publication Date: January 1995

Publisher: Jewish Communal Service Association of North America

Author(s): Yosepha Steiner

Research Area: Population and demographics; Social conditions

Keywords: Social Services; Feminism; Employment

Type: Report

Coverage: Israel

Abstract:

Empowerment of women must not only involve those who are highly educated and skilled but also those at the base of the socioeconomic pyramid. Strategies and techniques derived from the social work profession have been used in Israel to empower women at both ends of the socioeconomic spectrum. Training, incorporating consciousness-raising techniques and social skills and behavioral training, has been given to women seeking managerial posts in the labor force and involvement in local politics. Disadvantaged women, particularly the victims of domestic violence, have benefited from a multimodal, integrated treatment approach. Raising the base of the socioeconomic pyramid in this way will catalyze advancement at the top as well.