IATF Briefing Paper: Shared Life Education in Israel’s Public Education System | February 2016

Education in general and Israel’s public education system in particular, are increasingly recognized as crucial to fostering stronger relations between Jewish and Arab citizens in Israel. In recent years, as concepts of shared society have become more deeply rooted in organizations working across societal divisions,[1] and as efforts toward social cohesion and the economic integration of Israel’s Arab population have multiplied, the educational sphere has seen an upsurge of programs that incorporate shared life principles, and greater diversity and professionalism in their activity.[2]

This growing body of programs, now comprising the field of ‘Shared Life Education’ (SLE),[3] aims to provide the next generation of Jewish and Arab Israelis with tools, experiences, and awareness for cultivating a shared society in a diverse and multicultural country. Generally, these programs advance concepts of equality and mutual respect, prevent and repair stereotypes, foster partnerships, increase cultural and linguistic familiarity, and promote the socio-economic integration of the Arab community in Israel.

[1] See Task Force briefing paper on Shared Society between Jewish and Arab Citizens of Israel: Visions, Realities and Practices.

[2] Although shared life education occurs outside of schools as well (e.g. informal education programs, afterschool activities, and community-based initiatives), this paper focuses on implementation within the public school system, a priority for most civil society organizations in the field.

[3] Also known as Education for ‘Shared Living’ or ‘Shared Society’.