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Israel's Ultra-Orthodox Population Poised to Soar by 2050

2/11/2026

40 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) projects that by 2050 nearly 24% of Israelis will be ultra-Orthodox, up from 14%, a shift that could strain the economy and society.
IDI notes 16% of Haredim are eligible for matriculation exams, compared with 71% of the general population.
The report calls for a new social contract addressing education, military service, and economic participation.

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Story summary

The Israel Democracy Institute (IDI) projects that by 2050 nearly 24% of Israelis will be ultra-Orthodox, up from 14%, a shift that could strain the economy and society.
IDI notes 16% of Haredim are eligible for matriculation exams, compared with 71% of the general population.
The report calls for a new social contract addressing education, military service, and economic participation.