The Principle of Equality in the Eyes of the Israeli Citizens: A Comparative Study between Arab and Jewish Citizens in Israel

This study explores the perceptions of Arab and Jewish citizens in Israel regarding the principle of equality, utilizing a mixed-method approach comprising both qualitative and quantitative methods. The sample consisted of 200 Israeli citizens, divided equally among Arabs and Jews, with all participants completing a questionnaire and 10 also participating in in-depth interviews. The findings reveal significant differences in perceptions of inequality across various dimensions, including income, employment opportunities, educational accessibility, healthcare coverage, and housing quality. These disparities highlight a profound difference in how the two communities perceive their socio-economic standing within the country. For instance, a majority of Arab citizens perceive income inequality and economic discrimination, a sentiment less echoed among Jewish citizens. Employment opportunities also emerged as a concern, with Arab professionals reporting discrimination in the job market. Educational accessibility is notably perceived as unequal by Arab citizens, reflecting disparities in resources and facilities between Jewish and Arab schools. Similarly, healthcare coverage and the quality of housing facilities are areas where Arab citizens perceive greater inequality. The qualitative findings corroborate these perceptions, emphasizing the need for policy changes and a more inclusive approach to address socio-economic and political disparities.

The study emphasizes the importance of aligning democratic principles with equitable outcomes, highlighting the challenge faced by the Israeli government in balancing the country's distinct identity with the need for equality in all sectors. It calls for a reevaluation of the Israeli legal system in light of Israel's unique history and cultural richness, advocating for pluralism, inclusivity, and equality. The influence of Zionist ideas since Israel's establishment in 1948 is also discussed, particularly their impact on power distribution and opportunities across different ethnicities. The study suggests that these ideologies may contribute to career advancement challenges faced by non-Jewish citizens, reflecting a broader issue of implicit and explicit discrimination in the country.