• A recent study found that 40% of Israelis now express a desire to leave the country, driven by rising polarisation.
• 6% of Jews born in Israel live abroad. The number of this demographic living abroad is expected to continue on a growth trajectory.
A recent study by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem exposes a dramatic societal shift in Israel. The research reveals that government decisions—especially those on political and judicial reforms—and escalating social divisions have ignited a profound wave of public discontent.
The study found that 40% of Israelis now express a desire to leave the country, driven by deep concerns over governmental direction and rising polarisation. This stark trend highlights an ever-growing crisis and internal conflict within the Knesset. The problem for many Israelis precedes the recent genocide of Palestinians, as demographic and political shifts have prompted some secular, liberal Israelis to question their future in a state increasingly dominated by who they perceive to be religious traditionalists.
A study by the Institute for Jewish Policy Research estimates that around 630,000 of Jews born in Israel currently reside abroad, representing about 6% of Israel’s population. This number is expected to continue on a growth trajectory.
Noam with businesses of a PR consultancy and a cannabis pharmacy said he now, alongside his wife are contemplating school options in European countries as they discuss where to start a new life. Following October 7th there was an increased urgency of his search, he alluded but it has been a decision born out of longstanding concerns for him personally.
“The main reason we are leaving is that we are seeking a better future for our children. Even if peace can be brokered tomorrow, we still can’t see a future we want to be a part of,” Noam said. “The demographics speak for themselves.”
He thinks Israel’s economy will be hindered by the growing number of ultra-orthodox young people unqualified for professional jobs as they do not study maths or science, or speak English. Socially, he fears the rise of religious conservatives will make life hard for secular Jews. “If you ask me what we are headed for, you can look at the Iranian model, where religion plays a major role in daily life”, he said.
