Christian schools in Jerusalem are facing unprecedented pressure following the Israeli Ministry of Education’s announcement on March 10, 2026, that no work permits will be issued for the 2026-2027 academic year to «green card» holders residing in the West Bank. Consequently, nearly 230 Christian teachers will be unable to work, jeopardizing the operation of 15 historic institutions and the very future of Christian education in the Holy City.
Pressure on Christian schools in Jerusalem
This decision follows a July 2025 law aimed at banning the employment of teachers with degrees obtained in the West Bank, claiming they do not meet academic qualifications. While previous permit issues led to strikes, the newest mandate requiring teachers to reside in the city and hold Israeli certificates creates an even deeper crisis. A representative of the General Secretariat of Christian Schools told Aid to the Church in Need (ACN):
«If this decision is truly implemented, our Christian schools will find themselves in a very difficult position, which will jeopardise their sustainability and cause them to lose their Christian mission».
Social consequences and the risk of emigration
Founded at the end of the 19th century, these schools have played a vital interreligious role. With an average of 15 teachers absent per school, there are not enough local Christian teachers in Jerusalem to replace them. Beyond the educational impact, the termination of these long-term jobs during the ongoing regional conflict may force affected families to emigrate in search of a future.
The local Church is actively communicating with the Holy See and international actors to urge a reversal of this policy. The representative highlighted the importance of global awareness:
«It is essential to highlight this problem on a global scale by disseminating information to make the truth known. Financial aid will also be necessary if the decision is enforced and families find themselves deprived of their income».
