The March 2000 amendment gave women equal status in the workforce, education, health, housing and social welfare. Despite the laws, women are still underrepresented in the government, Cabinet and leadership positions in many companies and organizations. An ongoing conflict concerns access to Israel's holy places, specifically the Western Wall . A separate area is set aside for women, but they have been prevented from praying collectively. Meanwhile, religious courts in Israel have control over personal status issues, such as marriage and divorce , hence, women cannot initiate divorce proceedings.
Domestic violence is another problem faced by many Israeli women, both religious and secular.
Non-governmental organizations, shelters and hotlines provide support for abused women. Perhaps the most important topic for the environment and Israel's long-term survival is access to drinking water. Water resources are scant and Israel is negotiating to receive water from Turkey and other outside sources. Low water tables in the Sea of Galilee affects not only local fish and wildlife, but has also led to a number of drownings in the summer of 2000. Because of increased immigration and high birth rates, Israel's population is booming and could become one of the most densely populated nations in the world.