EJA IN THE MEDIA

Yesterday (23.10.25), EJA Chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin, Vice Chairman Alexander Benjamin and EU Director of Relations Ruth Daskalopoulou-Isaac met with Commissioner Brunner at the European Commission in Brussels. The meeting focused on the growing concern over rising antisemitism across Europe and the urgent need to ensure the safety and security of Jewish communities and institutions.

Throughout Europe, Jewish life continues to thrive despite an atmosphere of increased hostility and fear. Centuries after the darkest chapters of our history, it is our shared responsibility to protect what has been rebuilt. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation between the European Jewish Association and the European Commission to ensure a safer and stronger future for the Jewish people in Europe.

We thank Commissioner Brunner and his dedicated team for their continued commitment to this fight. But as the situation grows more alarming, words and concern must now turn into concrete actions to protect Europe’s Jewish citizens and defend the values on which this continent was built.

EJA is very proud to announce this morning the appointment of David Lega as our new Secretary General!

Over the past year, David has served as our Senior Advisor on Advocacy, doing an excellent job and bringing his wealth of political, diplomatic, and leadership experience and skills to the role. His appointment will significantly strengthen EJA’s mission to represent and defend Jewish life, values, and interests across Europe.

David, a former Member of the European Parliament from 2019 to 2024, was one of the few Jewish parliamentarians. He served on the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Subcommittee on Human Rights, and was a board member of the European Parliament Working Group on Antisemitism. He also founded the Abraham Accords Network in the European Parliament, creating a cross-party platform for dialogue, cooperation, and peace between Europe and the Middle East.

Throughout his mandate, he was known for his strong and unwavering advocacy for Israel, his defense of human rights, and his commitment to combating antisemitism across Europe and in his native Sweden.

David Lega, newly appointed Secretary General, said:

“It is a great honor to take on this responsibility at a time when the challenges facing Jewish communities in Europe are both complex and urgent. The EJA has been at the forefront of advocacy for Jewish life and Israel in Europe, and I look forward to continuing this work with determination and hope. My goal is to strengthen our partnerships, deepen our impact and make sure that Jewish voices in Europe is not only heard, but respected.”

Rabbi Menachem Margolin, Chairman of the European Jewish Association, said:

“David Lega has already proven his deep commitment to the Jewish people and to our shared values. His leadership, integrity and international experience make him the right person to help steer our organization into the future. In this role, David will be responsible for managing EJA and EIPA operations and implementing the organization’s strategy, led by Tal Rabina , together with myself and our Vice Chairman, Alex Benjamin . We are delighted to welcome him as Secretary General and look forward to the energy and vision he will bring to the role.”

Under Lega’s leadership, the EJA will continue to strengthen its advocacy in European and national institutions, promote education and remembrance, and stand firmly against antisemitism in all its forms.

The European Jewish Association (EJA) was deeply honored to participate in yesterday’s profoundly moving ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, held at the historic site itself. Upholding our solemn commitment, we remain dedicated to our mission to combat antisemitism, preserve the memory of the Holocaust, and protect Jewish life across Europe.

Yesterday, the world united to commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day, marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau on January 27, 1945. At the site where over a million innocent lives were brutally extinguished, dignitaries, survivors, and leaders from across the world gathered to honor the memory of the six million Jews and countless others murdered during the Holocaust. Among the leaders present at the ceremony were Chancellor Scholz, King Charles III, President Zelenskyy, President Macron, and Israel’s Education Minister Kisch.

Fifty-six survivors of Auschwitz joined world leaders in the ceremony, which took place in a giant tent placed over the camp’s infamous gates—a gate that has become a symbol of Auschwitz’s grim history. This event was not only a moment to honor the victims but also a painful acknowledgment that this may be one of the final commemorations attended by those who lived through the horrors of Auschwitz, who bear witness firsthand to what they endured and how they survived.

Holocaust survivor Tova Friedman, who was just six years old when Auschwitz was liberated by the Red Army, delivered a poignant message: “We are here to proclaim and pledge that we will never allow history to repeat itself.” Tova, who survived by hiding among the dead to evade Nazi soldiers, shared how, at age 86, she is still haunted by the memories of those dark times.

Polish historian and Holocaust survivor Marian Turski echoed this sentiment, quoting Rabbi Nachman of Breslov: “All the world is a narrow bridge, and the main thing is not to be afraid.” His words, along with the testimonies of survivors, serve as a warning and reflect the survivors’ fears about the alarming rise of antisemitism and hatred in today’s world and a call to the world’s leaders to not be afraid and fight against antisemitism.

Brussels, 27 January 2025 – In an open letter, leading Jewish associations and the Belgian League against Anti-Semitism have addressed the leaders of the upcoming Belgian government.

The letter, signed by the European Jewish Association (EJA), the Ligue belge contre l’antisémitisme (LBCA) and the Joods Informatie- en Documentatiecentrum (JID), outlines key concerns of the Jewish community that they hope to see addressed in the new coalition agreement. The letter is being accompanied by an extensive online communication campaign to highlight this action and to involve citizens in the initiative.

1. Increased security

The letter highlights the need for increased security measures for Jewish institutions in light of the increased risk of attack, as identified by national security organisations. It calls for both temporary and structural reinforcements to ensure the safety of the Jewish community and implores the appointment of a federal security advisor to coordinate these matters.

2. Combating Jew hatred

The letter calls for the appointment of a special coordinator to combat anti-Semitism, an initiative already adopted by several European countries. This coordinator would be responsible for monitoring Jew hatred and developing strategies against this growing threat, particularly in view of the worrying increase in anti-Semitic incidents in Belgium.

3. Freedom of religion

As Europe continues to secularise, the letter underlines the importance of recognising and protecting religious freedoms. The Jewish community seeks assurances that its right to freedom of belief will continue to be respected and protected, and stresses the importance of constructive dialogue on sensitive issues.

The call to the new government is clear: take the concerns of the Jewish community seriously and integrate their needs into policy. The letter concludes with an invitation for partnership in the hope that, despite the tragedies of the past, the Jewish community can look forward to a dynamic future.

It is now up to the leaders of the coalition government in formation to respond to this call and to show that Belgium recognises and protects the value and contributions of its Jewish citizens.

Download the letter in PDF

https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:EU:8cd61633-824b-4f06-a19f-b8a607728615

Bruxelles, le 27 janvier 2025 – Dans une lettre ouverte, des associations juives et la Ligue belge contre l’antisémitisme s’adressent aux dirigeants de la coalition Arizona.

Signée par la European Jewish Assosiaction (EJA), la Ligue belge contre l’antisémitisme (LBCA) et het Joods Informatie- en Documentatiecentrim (JID), cette lettre présente les principales préoccupations de la communauté juive qu’elle espère voir abordées dans le nouvel accord de coalition. Une vaste campagne de communication en ligne est lancée parallèlement à la lettre afin de mettre en lumière l’action et d’impliquer les citoyens dans l’initiative.

1. Renforcement de la sécurité

Elle souligne la nécessité de renforcer les mesures de sécurité pour les institutions juives, compte tenu du risque accru d’attentats identifié par l’OCAM. Elle appelle à des renforcements temporaires et structurels nécessaires pour assurer la sécurité de la communauté juive. Il est suggéré qu’un conseiller en matière de sécurité soit nommé au niveau fédéral pour coordonner ces questions.

2. Lutte contre l’antisémitisme

La lettre demande la nomination d’un coordinateur pour lutter contre l’antisémitisme, une initiative déjà adoptée par plusieurs pays européens. Ce coordinateur serait chargé de surveiller l’antisémitisme et de développer des stratégies pour lutter contre cette menace croissante, notamment en raison de l’augmentation inquiétante des incidents antisémites en Belgique.

3. Liberté de religion

Alors que l’Europe se sécularise de plus en plus, la lettre souligne l’importance de la reconnaissance et de la protection des libertés religieuses. La communauté juive souhaite obtenir l’assurance que son droit à la liberté de croyance continuera d’être respecté et protégé, et souligne l’importance d’un dialogue constructif sur les questions sensibles.

L’appel lancé au nouveau gouvernement est clair : prenez les préoccupations de la communauté juive au sérieux et intégrez leurs besoins dans la politique. La lettre se termine par une invitation au partenariat, dans l’espoir que la communauté juive, malgré les tragédies du passé, puisse affronter un avenir dynamique.

Il appartient maintenant aux présidents des partis de la coalition de l’Arizona de répondre à cet appel à l’action et de montrer que la Belgique reconnaît et protège la valeur et les contributions de ses citoyens juifs.

Téléchargez également la lettre au format PDF.

https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:EU:372afbbc-7efa-488b-8856-ee8c224ab208

This week, we convened an Emergency Summit of European Jewish Leaders with our partners from numerous European countries to address the urgent state of Jewish communities following the alarming rise in antisemitism after the October 7th attack on Israel. Over the past 15 months, Jewish communities across Europe have faced massive demonstrations, thousands of antisemitic attacks, including physical assaults, vandalism, and the constant targeting of synagogues and Holocaust memorial sites. Thousands of Jewish people have fled Europe, many seeking refuge in Israel despite the ongoing war.

We have repeatedly urged European leaders to declare a state of emergency to combat these escalating waves of antisemitism. The delegation gathered in Larnaca met with key leaders in Cyprus, including President of the House of Representatives Annita Demetriou, His Beatitude Archbishop Georgios, members of the Cyprus parliament, and heads of the Jewish communities in Cyprus. We explored the exemplary treatment provided by the Cypriot government to its Jewish communities, the protection they offer, and the deep historical ties between the Jewish people and Cyprus.

During our meetings with Archbishop Georgios and President Demetriou, we expressed our profound concerns about the future of Jewish communities in Europe, the preservation of Jewish life, and sought their support in ensuring not only the safety of these communities but also the protection of our freedom of religion.

We were also honored to welcome esteemed guests and friends from Cyprus for a special gala event, where we presented the King Solomon Award to President Nicos Anastasiades, the 7th President of Cyprus. This award recognizes President Anastasiades’ steadfast support for the Jewish people and the State of Israel during difficult times, and his unwavering commitment to truth and moral integrity.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dear friends and partners who traveled from across Europe to join us for this pivotal summit. Your participation in these crucial discussions and your unwavering commitment to safeguarding Jewish communities in Europe are invaluable. Together, we remain steadfast in our relentless efforts to ensure the safety, security, and prosperity of Jewish life throughout the continent.

BRUSSELS – The European Jewish Association (EJA) commends the decision by political parties in the Belgian city of Willebroek to exclude Karim Hassoun from the governing coalition. “Hassoun is a radical extremist who supports Hamas and Hezbollah and imports anti-Semitism onto the streets of Europe,” says Belgian MP and EJA diplomatic envoy Michael Freilich. Karim Hassoun is the co-founder of the Hind Rajab foundation, that prosecutes Israeli soldiers around the world.

After months of negotiations following municipal elections in October 2024, the leaders of Willebroek’s two largest parties finally reached an agreement to form a governing coalition on Thursday evening, January 8^th 2025. Willebroek is a city in the province of Antwerp, Belgium.

This development came about after Hassoun’s own party expelled the extremist following calls by the Belgian Jewish community to do so.

Hamas supporter

It was the Belgian Jewish Magazine, Joods Actueel, that led the campaign against Hassoun by publishing articles about the mans social media posts.

When asked if Hassoun would condemn Hamas after the October 7th attacks, Hassoun wrote on social media, “I condemn Hamas for not taking 500 or 1000 hostages, instead of just 200.”

Regina Suchowolsky, head of the Belgian Forum of Jewish Organisations and member of the European Jewish Association, had urged local politicians not to include an extremist figure like Hassoun. Joods Actueel also published photographs of Hassoun proudly wearing a Hezbollah cap and revealed images of him honouring a Hezbollah terrorist in front of the Belgian Holocaust Museum.

Standing firm

Mayor Eddy Bevers of the N-VA party had consistently stated that he would not govern alongside extremists and refused to share power with Hassoun’s party, Iedereen 2830. In the end, Iedereen 2830 conceded and removed Karim Hassoun from its faction, in order for a coalition to be formed.

EJA diplomatic envoy Michael Freilich, who is the only Jewish MP in Belgium and a party colleague of Mayor Bevers, praised Bevers for standing firm on principle:

“It is crucial that we uphold our responsibility to serve the public and refuse to give in to extremist voices. Hassoun tried to hide his track record, but did not get away with it. Under his leadership of the Arab European League, the Dutch branch of the organisation was convicted for minimising the Holocaust after publishing a cartoon showing Anne Frank in bed with Adolf Hitler. Someone like Hassoun is a vile figure and has no place in public office. His hateful actions impact and directly affect Jewish communities”.

Prosecuting Israeli soldiers

Hassoun is also the co-founder of the Hind Rajb Foundation, which seeks to prosecute Israeli soldiers around the world. He launched the organisation in September 2024, just one month before the local elections in Belgium. “This indicates that his primary focus lies in attacking Israel and Israelis, rather than addressing local

“Ignoring history of 6 million murdered Jews and linking Holocaust to Gaza is exactly why the schools must take part…the Holocaust must transcend political opinion especially from educators… This is pandering to the basest of lies. The lie that seeks to draw a similarity with the Holocaust and the War in Gaza. The Minister of Education of Belgium should be intervening,” says Chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin

(Brussels 9 January 2025) Two schools in Anderlecht, Brussels are refusing to take part in a ceremony marking the laying of Stolpersteine (memory stones) for Belgian Jews murdered during the Holocaust, stating that “the schools do not wish to impose the children any discussion on the Holocaust  given the current conditions in the Middle-East.”

One of the schools involved removed an Israeli flag that was part of a ‘flags of the world’ event recently according to reports that sought to explain the decision, at the behest of a parent who had complained about the flag in the school playground.

The Brussels based European Jewish Association, that represent hundreds of Jewish Communities across Europe, fights antisemitism and regularly takes delegations of Senior Politicians and influential figures such as Elon Musk, to Auschwitz to witness, to remember and to find solutions to fight against antisemitism.

The Chairman today expressed his shock and anger at the decision stating that such an ignorant approach to what happened is precisely why the two schools must attend.

In a statement today Rabbi Menachem Margolin said,

“At a time of record rises in antisemitism, it is precisely to the next generation that we should be transmitting the warning from history of the greatest crime against humanity committed.

“The Holocaust is beyond politics. Conflating the mass murder of 6 millions Jews with the current conflict with Gaza is shocking and an appaling dereliction of duty on the part of two schools who have a moral, civic and human duty to transmit the reality of the Holocaust to the next generation.

“I believe that this decision has been taken to not offend the parents of a particular group of children from a particular religious background. This is pandering to the basest of lies: the lie that seeks to draw a similarity with the Holocaust and the War in Gaza. The Minister of Education of Belgium should be intervening. We cannot eradicate the truth to please a minority who may think otherwise.”

Sweden is stopping all aid to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This is according to Minister for Development Cooperation Benjamin Dousa (M) for TV4 News.

The main reason is that it will be more difficult to receive aid after Israel banned all UNRWA activities in the country, which in practice is a ban on the organisation.

According to Mr Dousa, aid to Gaza will be increased at the same time, from €400 million to €800 million, but will be channelled through other actors. He cites the UN food programme WFP as an example.

In January this year, the government cut off aid to UNRWA following accusations of terror links by Israel. In March, the then Minister for Development Cooperation, Johan Forssell (M), announced that aid would resume after ‘written guarantees’ that money would not fall into the wrong hands.

Read the full article here: https://omni.se/sverige-slopar-stodet-till-unrwa/a/LMedgP

The EJA and our partners the Joods Forum of Antwerp and JID, had the opprtunity to meet with Mr Olivér Várhelyi, the European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety. The EJA has long enjoyed a great relationship with Commissioner Varheyli, who was a recipient in Krakow of the EJA’s Jerusalem Award for his support for European Jewry, and his support for the State of Israel.

In his new role, the Commissioner has responsibility for two key matters relating to European Jewry, those of circumcision and kosher slaughter. We pledged to work together to protect these two pillars of Judaism from any political attempts that would seek to ban or hinder them. We very much look forward to working again with our esteemed friend and took the opportunity to congratulate him in person.

BRUSSELS, Monday Dec 3, 2024 – Under the auspices of the European Jewish Association (EJA), a solemn moment of silence and the lighting of a memorial candle took place today at the European Parliament in memory of Chabad Rabbi Zvi Kogan, who was brutally murdered in the United Arab Emirates last week.

The tragic incident has sent shockwaves across Jewish and Israeli communities worldwide.

UAE Ambassador Mohammed Am Sahlawi joined the commemoration, offering his heartfelt condolences: “What happened is extremely shocking and very sad. This act of extremism is precisely why we must double down on our shared values of coexistence and tolerance.”

Rabbi Menachem Margolin, Executive Director of the EJA, strongly condemned the attack, stating: “This horrific act of terror is a stark reminder that antisemitism and hatred have no borders. It is incumbent upon all of us to fight these dark forces and to strengthen the bonds of understanding and mutual respect among nations.”

Michael Freilich, the only Jewish lawmaker in Belgium and a special diplomatic envoy for the EJA, also addressed the gathering: “Let’s turn this tragedy into a rallying call for unity and cooperation. The Abraham Accords have shown us what is possible when Jews and Arabs come together as partners in peace. The most powerful message we can send to those who wish to divide us is that they will fail. Our resolve for coexistence and collaboration is unshakable.”

The commemoration serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of continued dialogue and partnership between Jewish and Arab communities. It also underscores the enduring need to combat extremism in all its forms and to build bridges of understanding across the globe.

Today begins the important gathering of the EJA Auschwitz Delegation, marking 80 years since the Liberation of Auschwitz. This solemn anniversary prompts reflection on a troubling reality: antisemitism continues to rise, reaching levels not seen since the days before Kristallnacht.

The discussions today will address:

Why does antisemitism persist in higher education despite widespread adoption of the IHRA definition?
How has antizionism become synonymous with antisemitism, affecting Jewish life across Europe?

Key speakers this morning include:

Rabbi Rabbi Menachem Margolin Chairman of the European Jewish Association
Ruth Isaac Director of EU Relations, European Jewish Association
Rabbi @Shlomo Koves, Chief Rabbi of EMIH and Chairman of APL, Hungary

Stay tuned as these leaders and others tackle these pressing issues.

hashtag#EJA hashtag#Auschwitz hashtag#NeverAgain hashtag#Holocaust hashtag#Education hashtag#IHRA

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We gather here tonight, on the anniversary of Kristallnacht, to remember. To remember the night when windows were shattered and Jewish homes, shops, and synagogues were destroyed. That night was the prelude to a plan that extended beyond murder and physical violence. It was a plan aimed at systematically erasing Jewish life, culture, and presence from the heart of Europe.

We often speak of the concentration camps, and we must – they symbolize the most horrific cruelty in our history. But we must also understand that the Holocaust was not just about the six million lives lost in the gas chambers. It was also about the eradication of an entire way of life. Jewish communities that for centuries had been an integral part of European cities, their culture, and identity, disappeared. Cities like Krakow, Vilnius, and Budapest, once centers of Jewish learning, art, and business, fell silent. Hitler sought to erase Jewish life – concentration camps were a means, not the end.

Two days ago, Israeli football fans were attacked in Amsterdam in an incident described as a “modern pogrom.” This shows that antisemitism is still a reality in Europe. The difference now is that Israel can fly its people to safety. This underscores the world’s obligation not only to combat antisemitism but also to support Israel so that it can continue to protect Jews worldwide when others fail. Israel is the guarantee that the promise of “never again” remains true.

It is with this insight that we must view our present. When we see the rising antisemitism in our cities, not least here in Malmö, we realize that what we are witnessing is more than just a worrying trend. It is a modern form of the historical erasure of Jewish life. When Jewish families no longer feel safe wearing a kippah on the street, when threats and harassment become part of their daily lives, something much deeper is at play than a simple decision to move. It is a loss for society as a whole.

October 7, 2023, changed much in the world. The attack by Hamas and the wave of hatred and hostility that followed shook not only Israel but also us here in Europe. We saw tensions rise at home and how Jews, even in Malmö, began asking themselves again: Are we really safe here? Is this our city?

It is important to understand what it means when a Jewish family decides to leave a city like Malmö. It is not just a move; it is a blow to the city’s soul. Malmö has for centuries been a place where different cultures meet. Losing the Jewish presence means losing part of the city’s historical and cultural heritage.

But we are here today not just to reflect on what has been, but to take a stand against what is happening. We must dare to say: “Never again” does not just mean preventing murder and violence. It also means protecting and cherishing Jewish life in all its forms – religious, cultural, and social. It means building a society where every person, regardless of belief, feels safe to express their identity without fear.

Sweden has a history of being a safe home for many, a place where diversity meets and enriches. But if we allow antisemitism to silence Jewish voices and force families away, it is not just they who lose. We all lose. Our shared history and heritage are lost piece by piece.

So tonight, in memory of Kristallnacht, let us pledge to never let hatred prevail. Let us stand together – as friends, neighbors, and fellow human beings – to ensure that every person, every family, feels safe being who they are. We must ensure that Malmö, Sweden, and all of Europe are places where Jewish life can flourish, not just survive.

We are here to remember, but also to act. Malmö, Sweden, and Europe have a choice to make: to learn from history and ensure that darkness never takes hold again, or to risk that the small steps we ignore today lead to great tragedies tomorrow.

It is with alarm that I see UEFA does not deem the enormous ‘Free Palestine’ Banner unfurled at the Paris Saint Germain – Athletico Madrid Champions league match as, acoording to a spokesperson of your organisation as neither insulting or provocative. I suggest to you that the spokesperson in question is either visually or is deliberately ignoring the facts.

The Banner included the ‘I’ of Palestine outlined as the state of Israel but entirely covered by the Palestinian keffiyeh. In short it denies Israel’s existence, one of the most common antisemitic tropes that exist today.

The European Jewish Association, representing hundreds of Jewish Communities across the continent, is heavily engaged in the fight against antisemitism, whose levels have exploded since October 7^th , the largest pogrom against Jews anywhere since the Second World War.

Mr President, I will be blunt. If someone unfurled a huge banner with Ukraine under a Russian Flag would it be insulting or provocative? Or how about Slovenia under an Italian or Austrian Flag? You of course know the answer.

Denying Israel’s right to exist, particularly in the mouth of an ongoing war and after the largest pogrom against Jews since the Second World War is not only grossly insulting to millions of Jewish and Israeli football fans worldwide, but it is openly antisemitic and hostile.

You must act strongly today and penalise the Club. If you will not, others will feel emboldened to do likewise. Jewish communities everywhere, but especially in Europe, are already living under daily threats to their lives from the hate that these banners espouse. The banner is not a call for liberation Mr President. It is a call for Jewish eradication.

EJA’s advisor and coordinator for Germany, Oliver Bradley, accepted an invitation by the State Association of Jewish Communities in Brandenburg (Landesverband der Jüdischen Gemeinden Land Brandenburg) as guest speaker for the opening ceremony of the state of Brandenburg’s “Education and Action Weeks Against Anti-Semitism”, yesterday.

During the course of the evening, the Association also included Oliver Bradley among its honorees for “…resolute committente to cohesion and respectful coexistence in our society…”
….
At the Brandenburg state capitol building (Landtag Brandenburg), in Potsdam.

Humo is sold and read in Netherlands and therefore liable say both groups in a statement announcing the legal case.

Humo Magazine, and its writer Herman Brusselmans, already subject to ongoing legal proceedings in Belgium, are now facing the same pressures in the Netherlands after the principal body representing Dutch Jewry – the CJO together with the Brussels based EJA announced that they have started legal proceedings in Holland.

In a Humo article published in August, Herman Brusselmans wrote the following: “I see an image of a crying and screaming Palestinian boy that is crying inconsolably for his mother who lying under the rubble, and I imagine that the boy is my own son Roman, and the mother is my own girlfriend Lena, and I become so enraged that I want to ram a pointed knife straight into the throat of every Jew I meet.”

The article, despite horrified objections by Jews in Belgium, and indeed across the world, was allowed to remain on Humo pages, and in fact was only retracted under duress and acres of negative coverage. By then the damage had been done.

The legal proceedings have been launched in Holland as the magazine, written in Dutch, is readily available on newstands and in libraries across the country.

Chanan Hertzberger, the Chairman of the CJO, announcing the legal case against Brusselmans and Humo magazine, said in a statement:

“The antisemitic hate perpetuated by Brusselmans was cross-border, aided and abbetted by Humo magazine who acted as the courier to many thousands of readers in Holland.

“As such his antisemitic incitement to murder affects Dutch Jewry in the same way his incitement to murder affects Belgian Jewry. The irresponsibility and lack of Judgement at Humo – in light of the record rises in antisemitism across the continent since October the 7th – is astounding. Their reticence in pulling the piece, that should have been scrunched up and thrown in the editorial bin in the first place does not make them guardians of freedom of speech – as they would have it – but as willing accomplices. This cannot stand. And we at the CJO will not allow it to stand.”

Rabbi Menachem Margolin, the Chairman of the EJA, who along with partners in Belgian Jewish organisations have an ongoing case against the magazine and Brusselmans in the Belgian courts added

“The Brusselmans case is a hugely important one. It goes to the very heart of the battle against antisemitism. As a people denied a voice, or indeed representation throughout history, you will not find bigger advocates for freedom of speech than Jews. But Brusselmans and Humo exploited this freedom is the most disgusting and dangerous way, putting the lives of Jews literally in front of the writer’s pointed knife and in front of every reader he incited to do likewise either unwittingly or not.

“We must never allow hate to win and must always hold those that perpetuate it to account for their actions.”

Ends.

The ongoing debate about antisemitism and the lack of action against antisemitic attacks clearly shows that we need a united front in the fight against this hatred. Many organizations and actors are trying, with good intentions, to create new definitions of antisemitism to better describe the current situation. However, instead of helping, these initiatives risk dividing, delaying, and ultimately making it even harder to move forward.

The antisemitic attacks we see today often aim to criticize Israel for the situation in Gaza. And it is, of course, terrible. But even if we have different opinions about the conflict and its causes, we should all agree that regardless of what one thinks about the situation in Gaza, it is unacceptable that Swedish Jews feel threatened and unsafe here because people are angry at another country.

The IHRA definition of antisemitism, which Sweden adopted under Stefan Löfven’s government, is the most recognized and widely used internationally. It provides clear guidance on when criticism of the State of Israel crosses the line into antisemitic attacks against Jews. Adhering to this definition is crucial for effectively identifying and combating antisemitism.

In times of populism, where simple solutions to complex problems are often sought, it is even more important to stand firm on principles such as a common definition of antisemitism. Creating new definitions, even if the intentions are good, complicates the work against the hatred directed at Jews today. It causes us to remain stagnant rather than unite and take strong action against the rising antisemitism.

To move forward, we must work together based on a common definition – and the IHRA definition is our strongest tool in this fight.

Released in https://fores.se/tisdagsklubben/

By David Lega

Almhaissen’s silence is a moral betrayal

When Rula Almhaissen, Palestine’s ambassador to Sweden, was recently interviewed on SVT’s 30 Minutes, her appearance showcased a selective silence that contributes to worsening the conflict between Israel and Palestine. Additionally, it risks contributing to rising antisemitism in Swedish society. She refused to condemn Hamas’ terrorist acts, ignored the growing antisemitism, and did not mention the oppression of LGBTQ+ individuals under Hamas rule. Moreover, she turned a blind eye to Hamas’ use of civilians as human shields.

Almhaissen’s selective view on human rights and her unwillingness to distance herself from all forms of extremism and hate undermine the credibility of her message about peace and justice. If she truly wants to contribute to a solution, she must speak plainly and acknowledge that hate and violence can never be justified. Her silence is not just cowardly; it is dangerous.

Most people have seen the horrific images from October 7 when Hamas carried out a brutal terrorist attack against innocent Israeli civilians, resulting in over a thousand deaths and the taking of hundreds of hostages. But despite the attacks being internationally condemned and Hamas being classified as a terrorist organization by both the EU and the US, Almhaissen avoided calling it what it is—terrorism. By not recognizing these actions as terrorism, she sends a dangerous message: that violence against civilians can be justified in the fight against Israel. How can one claim to advocate for peace while refusing to condemn such acts?

Almhaissen’s passivity becomes even more problematic when looking at the increasing antisemitism in Sweden and Europe. Jewish communities are living under growing threats, and violent hate crimes are on the rise. Despite this, she did not say a word about this problem. Ignoring antisemitism is not only irresponsible, but it also contributes to normalizing hatred against Jews. The situation in Gaza is terrible, but if she truly cares about human rights, why does she remain silent when Jews are threatened in Sweden?

Another issue completely overlooked by the ambassador was Hamas’ tactic of using civilians as human shields. Placing weapons and firing rockets from schools, hospitals, and residential areas in Gaza is not only unethical; it is a war crime. Yet, Almhaissen chose to place all the blame on Israel. How can a diplomat who claims to care about civilians not condemn such a tactic?

The ambassador is likely also grateful that the host did not bring up the dreadful treatment of LGBTQ+ people in Gaza. For many years, they have been subjected to persecution and violence. How can she speak of justice and freedom without highlighting the harsh reality for these people under Hamas’ rule? By not condemning these abuses, she shows that her talk of human rights only applies to certain groups.

Almhaissen’s appearance was a clear example of how avoiding uncomfortable truths can worsen an already complex conflict. By refusing to condemn Hamas’ terror, ignoring antisemitism, downplaying the oppression of LGBTQ+ people, and turning a blind eye to the use of human shields, she showed that her talk of human rights is selective. If she truly wants to promote peace and justice, she must start speaking plainly and distancing herself from all forms of extremism and hate. Regardless of whom she believes is responsible for the situation in Gaza, she should at least be able to say that it is unacceptable for Jews in Sweden to be threatened because of it. That would have been at least decent.

David Lega
Senior Adviser for European Jewish Association

Read the full piece here: https://www.altinget.se/civilsamhalle/artikel/lega-palestinas-ambassador-tror-bara-paa-vissa-personers-manskliga-rattigheter

The European Jewish Association (EJA) intends to take legal action against the Flemish magazine Humo and the writer Herman Brusselmans over a column Brusselmans published on Tuesday. The Brussels-based association announced this on the X network.

In his column, the Flemish writer says that the image of a small Palestinian child screaming at his mother under the rubble – while keeping his own son or girlfriend in mind – makes him so angry that he wants to put a knife to the throat of every Jewish person he meets.

The reaction of the Jewish community to his column on the war in Gaza was swift. “You can’t call it ‘satire’ when it’s about disgusting calls for violence against a segment of the population”, wrote N-VA MP Michael Freihlich on the X network.

The EJA described the passage as “psychopathic”. The EJA is taking legal action against the magazine Humo and its author Herman Brusselmans for incitement to murder”, the association said on X. “Such dangerous rhetoric invites real violence”, it warned. “Such dangerous rhetoric invites real violence”, the organisation warned.

Herman Brusselmans described the accusations as “completely off the mark”, in a reaction quoted by VRT NWS.

He insisted that his remarks were not an incitement to murder, and pointed out that in the sentences following this passage, he was not referring to all Israelis. “If that were the case, it would be racism, and I am absolutely not a racist”, said Mr Brusselmans.

Read the full article here:

https://www.rtl.be/actu/belgique/faits-divers/une-organisation-juive-poursuit-en-justice-le-magazine-humo-et-lauteur-herman/2024-08-07/article/698118

Our esteemed colleague, Ruth Wasserman Lande, a Research Fellow and Expert on Middle Eastern Affairs, former Deputy Ambassador, and Knesset Member, delivered a crucial briefing in our office today. The topic? “Israel and the Arab Nations post October 7th”. This is a matter of urgent importance, with significant implications for regional stability and international relations.

Your Excellency President von der Leyen,

On behalf of the European Jewish Association and all our member organisations and
communities from across Europe, we have the pleasure of offering our heartfelt
congratulations on your re-election as President of the European Commission!
We thank you for your strong leadership in the fight against antisemitism and fostering
Jewish life in Europe. As you very eloquently said in your speech today, Europe’s destiny
hinges on what we do next. Your vision of a strong Europe that protects people and defends
democracy is one that we all share.

As Jewish communities in Europe face unprecedented spike of antisemitic acts, we trust that
this will continue to be a priority for the European Commission and very much look forward
to continuing a fruitful relationship with your office.

EJA represents hundreds of Jewish communities across Europe and we count many Heads of
States, Ministers, Commissioners, Ambassadors and Members of Parliament as valuable
partners in our work against antisemitism and fostering Jewish life in Europe.

Your Excellency, we would greatly appreciate a meeting with you and a delegation of
Jewish Leaders from across Europe to discuss pressing concerns of Jewish communities
today and remain available whenever it is possible for your schedule.

We thank you for your kind consideration and congratulate you again on your re-election as
President of the European Commission.

It was a great pleasure to meet with our friend HE. Bálint Ódor to discuss areas of mutual co-operation and fighting antisemitism under the auspices of the Hungarian Presidency of the European Union.

We were greatly reassured to hear the Permanent Representative say that combatting antisemitism and protecting freedom of religion are two priority areas for the Presidency. Together we discussed a number of policy areas to work on.

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The European Jewish Association is a prominent and influential organisation dedicated to representing, advocating for, and fostering the interests of the Jewish community across Europe. Founded on unity, tolerance, and inclusivity principles, the EJA bridges diverse Jewish communities and European societies.

#BringThemHomeNow #NeverAgainIsNow #NotOnMyWatch

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