At the Jerusalem Post Annual New York Conference on June 3, Naamat International President Hagit Peer highlighted the critical underrepresentation of women in Israel’s decision-making institutions, framing it as a challenge to the country’s democratic fabric rather than solely a gender issue. Speaking on the panel “Voices of Strength: Leaders Shaping the Future of Israel and the Jewish World,” Peer called on women to take proactive steps to claim leadership roles rather than waiting for opportunities to arise.

“Don’t wait for permission,” Peer urged. “If you want to do it, do it. Get to the table and sit there, and don’t wait for opportunity. And if there isn’t a place at the table, build another one.” She emphasized that despite comprising half of Israel’s population, women remain largely absent from significant leadership positions. “It’s not only a women’s issue – it’s a democratic issue,” she said, underscoring that decision-making bodies require diverse perspectives to function effectively.

To address this imbalance, Naamat has launched a range of initiatives, including leadership workshops and mentorship programs aimed particularly at young women entering the workforce or public service. Peer indicated that these programs seek to “work bottom-up” to foster greater female participation in leadership across sectors.

In addition to educational efforts, Peer discussed Naamat’s role in advocating for legislative reforms that support women and families, such as expanding fathers’ parental leave entitlements. She pointed to existing societal norms that place the burden of caregiving predominantly on mothers as detrimental both to women's professional advancement and to family dynamics. “When fathers take a meaningful part in leave and stay with the child, it means both a change in the workplace and a change in the family structure,” Peer said.

While acknowledging the importance of legal changes, Peer stressed that transforming cultural attitudes remains vital. “The law is not enough,” she said. “We have to do it in action.” Her remarks underscored a multifaceted approach combining policy reform, education, and cultural shifts as essential to achieving gender parity in leadership roles throughout Israel.