Over-Policing
A phenomenon in which a particular group experiences heightened, disproportionate police enforcement — a central issue in Ethiopian-Israeli discourse.
What is over-policing?
Over-policing describes a situation in which a particular population group experiences police presence, stops, searches and enforcement at a high, disproportionate rate relative to its share of the population. It is one of the central issues in the public discourse of the Ethiopian community in Israel.
How does it manifest?
- Frequent stops and checks without a clear basis
- Harsher treatment toward young people from the community
- In some cases — disproportionate use of force
Protests in 2015 and 2019 raised this issue to public awareness.
What can be done?
- Document — date, time, place, officers' names/numbers, witnesses, footage
- File a complaint with Mahash in cases of violence or prohibited conduct
- Seek legal aid — Tebeka, IAEJ or ACRI
- Know your rights — an officer's duty to identify themselves, the right to know why you are stopped/detained
> This is not legal advice. In a specific case, contact a lawyer or an aid organization.
See also
Related terms
- TebekaLegal aid center for Ethiopian-Israelis. National leader on issues of racism, law enforcement, and civil rights.
- Israeli Association for Ethiopian Jews (IAEJ)An advocacy organization working for equal opportunity and rights realization for Ethiopian-Israelis in education, employment and services.
- Police Internal Investigations Dept. (Mahash)A Justice Ministry department investigating offenses by police officers — including complaints of police violence and unjustified use of force.