Nineteenth International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations

Abstract

Ultra-Orthodox society in Israel is a religious minority group that has undergone significant changes, from a desire to maintain total separation, to gradual integration into a variety of areas in Israeli society. In light of these changes, we sought to examine the cultural-religious aspect in the employment context relating to this minority group, as well as to examine what policies should be adopted in order to improve ultra-Orthodox integration. Methodologically, we examined the cultural variance of ultra-Orthodox academics in their workplace using combined methods. The study included 745 ultra-Orthodox academics who responded to an online questionnaire that examined the issue in question from various aspects: social affiliation and religious level, respondents’ level of openness to the work environment, their perception of family and community reaction to their entry into the workforce, and openness and closeness to the environment. In addition, four focus groups were convened, in which in-depth discussion examined issues. The findings indicate that cultural adjustment is required in four areas: a. Adaptation from the social and cultural aspect in the workplace. b. The definition of different areas of employment specific to gender. c. Consideration of the employees’ halachic needs d. Professional preparation for employees prior to their absorption.