Children are at risk
There are about 2.5 million children in Israel, which means that almost 28% of the total population is under 14 years old. These children live in a high-income economy and enjoy a high quality of education, which is compulsory until the age of 17. However, Israel is in the midst of ongoing conflict and children are affected by violence. In addition, the country suffers from widespread income and gender inequality, and children are particularly affected by the consequences of this inequality.
2,300
Children were killed in the conflict
Violence and insecurity
Israel has been at the centre of conflicts in recent decades. The violence and instability caused by these conflicts have devastating consequences for children.
In the last two decades, about 2,300 children have been killed in the region.
Children are not only affected by the direct consequences of conflict, as they lack access to clean water, shelter and food and live in fear. They also suffer from the long-term effects, for example by getting post-traumatic stress syndrome.
27.5%
Of children live in poverty
Poverty
Although Israel has developed a strong economy, many people in the country still live in poverty and are affected by social exclusion. 17% of the population live below the poverty line, making the country one of the poorest of the OECD countries. Children are even more affected by these harsh living conditions, with 27.5% of children living in poverty. Due to the large income inequality among the population, other areas of well-being are also affected, with large inequalities in education, health and life satisfaction.
22%
Is the wage gap in Israel
Gender gap
In Israel, gender gaps in education and employment persist. Girls perform 10% worse in education, one of the largest gaps among OECD countries. Israel also has the second largest wage gap among OECD countries in employment, at 22%. This could be partly due to two reasons. First, religion is officially integrated into the Israeli state and determines services and legal status. Second, the Israeli military plays an important role in the functioning of the state and society. This Israeli gender inequality affects children the most.
Together we can make a difference for children in Israel
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
80
Children and young people
Are supported on their way to independence
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Today is Lital's first day of school and she is already very excited. Her SOS mother supports her and packs her school bag together with her. Now she is ready for the big day! (Photo: SOS Children’s Villages Israel)
Working together for sustainable development
In 2015, leaders from 193 countries committed to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This 15 year plan aims to improve the lives of people by ending poverty, fighting inequality and protecting the planet.
GOAL 1: End poverty
SOS Children’s Villages supports families and communities to keep families together and to help them break out of the cycle of poverty.
GOAL 4: Ensure quality education for all
Every child and young person SOS Children’s Villages supports has access to education, from kindergarten right up to vocational training or university.
GOAL 8: Equal job opportunities
SOS Children’s Villages supports young people in developing the skills and self-confidence they need to find decent work and trains parents so that they can have a stable income.
GOAL 10: Reduce inequalities
SOS Children’s Villages works to keep children safe, by promoting peaceful and inclusive communities. We provide training on children’s rights and positive parenting.
GOAL 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies
We advocate laws and practices that ensure social inclusion and protection for children and young people without parental care or from marginalized households.
Let’s keep on protecting children and young people!
Many children have been able to find a safe and secure home. With your help, we can continue to change their lives