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Justice for All? Jews and Arabs in the Israeli Criminal Justice System

NCJ Number
180482
Author(s)
Arye Rattner; Gideon Fishman
Editor(s)
Simon Hakim
Date Published
1998
Length
148 pages
Annotation
This book seeks to determine whether the Israeli justice system dispenses justice equally, irrespective of social grouping.
Abstract
Arabs are treated differentially in the criminal justice system; they are not treated as equals. This is not to suggest that police officers, prosecutors or judges operate on the basis of personal outlook or whim or any explicit instructive policy aimed at discriminating against Arabs. Findings need to be placed in a broader framework which takes into account the political and sociocultural context. Public opinion surveys consistently note that many Israelis believe the stereotype of Arabs as more violent and dangerous than Jews, and that Arabs should be denied fundamental civil rights, such as participation in the election of the prime minister, because of a “lack of loyalty” and “conflict of interest.” The criminal justice system may, to some extent, mirror society, its values and beliefs, including stereotypes. The justice system, especially the judiciary, should be more aware of any such trend and take steps to ensure that it becomes less of a reflection of prevailing prejudices and stereotypes and more of a leader and shaper of progressive values. Figures, notes, tables, appendix, bibliography, index