World Jewish Congress infuriated by sale of Nazi-era venom on Amazon

NEW YORK The World Jewish Congress is infuriated that Amazon is continuing to allow virulently hateful and inciteful material to be sold on its website, including a vile Nazi-era antisemitic children’s book depicting Jews in devilish form, published by Julius Streicher of the notorious Der Stürmer magazine, in 1938. In light of revelations that The Poisonous Mushroom is still readily available for sale on Amazon’s UK, US, and Germany platforms, WJC President Ronald S. Lauder is demanding that Amazon and its owner, Jeff Bezos, take immediate steps to remove this item and all other racist and xenophobic content from its website at once.“It is bewildering and frightening that in this digital age, in which we are more than well-aware of the dangers that can arise from the dissemination of hateful material online, Amazon would continue to allow the sale of an unquestionable piece of Nazi propaganda that brands Jews as no less than ‘poisonous mushrooms’,” Lauder said.“This book was written by one of the most despicable and loathsome exponents of Nazi antisemitic venom and was even used as evidence leading to his execution at the International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg. Streicher propagated an image of Jews as subhuman violent sexual abusers and enslavers, using his publications as a mouthpiece for blood libels and smear campaigns that shaped Nazi Germany and incited the near destruction of European Jewry. Streicher and his propaganda were so odious and vulgar that he was often shunned by other members of the Nazi Party, including defendants in Nuremberg when facing trial for crimes against humanity. How is it possible that Amazon has allowed such poisonous material to pass through its initial filters, posted online and accessible to anybody with a credit card, no matter their age or intention, at $0.99?” “While we appreciate the efforts that Amazon has made in the past to remove such offensive content, it is inconceivable that we should have to revisit this issue time and again, in order to ensure the safety and security of our communities from those who might well be inspired through these purchases to attack Jews and other minorities in the spirit of Nazi virulence,” Lauder added. “It cannot be left up to individuals or human rights organizations to repeatedly flag such content on Amazon’s behalf. A more sustainable mechanism must be put in place to keep these items from being posted at all.”“Three weeks ago, I stood on the grounds of Auschwitz-Birkenau with 200 survivors of the death camp who had returned on the 75th anniversary of its liberation to face the horrors that had stolen their youth, their innocence, and their families as a direct result of the hatred spewed in books like these. For the sake of all victims of the Holocaust, and out of simple moral corporate responsibility, it is imperative that Amazon fully joins us in our fight against antisemitism, rather than let it percolate on its platforms.”The World Jewish Congress (WJC) is the international organization representing Jewish communities in 100 countries to governments, parliaments and international organizations.

World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder disavows release of antisemitism report conducted by former NYPD chief Ray Kelly

NEW YORK – World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder has unequivocally distanced himself and the WJC from the unauthorized release of an unpublished two-year report conducted by former New York Police Department Commissioner Raymond Kelly, which, among its conclusions, allegedly cites France as the most dangerous place to be a Jew in Europe. The purported findings were published on Monday by the New York Post.
“Neither the World Jewish Congress nor I, personally, approved the public release of the recent report on antisemitism in Europe conducted by former NYPD Commissioner Raymond Kelly, which I commissioned, but have not yet reviewed. The findings of this report, which I cannot in any way confirm, were prepared on a strictly confidential basis, to be shared first and foremost with our affiliated communities. The report was intended for internal purposes only, so as to grant the leadership of our communities full discretion in how and whether to proceed with its conclusions,” said WJC President Lauder.“At a time of unquestionably rising antisemitism, we must be extremely vigilant and cautious in both our proactive and reactive strategies, looking at all of the facts on the ground and their full implications. The irresponsible release of such information inevitably foments anxiety and fear among Jews. It is extremely disappointing, and moreover, disconcerting, that this report has been released without my authorization,” Lauder said. “The World Jewish Congress is committed to working on behalf of, and in full coordination with, each of our more than 100 affiliated Jewish communities across the globe. Our primary interest is their best interest, and we will not allow this process to be exploited further.”
The World Jewish Congress (WJC) is the international organization representing Jewish communities in 100 countries to governments, parliaments and international organizations.

World Jewish Congress blasts UNHRC’s approval of five anti-Israel resolutions

NEW YORK – World Jewish Congress CEO and Executive Vice President Robert Singer on Friday blasted the United Nations Human Rights Council for its adoption of five anti-Israel resolutions, four of which fell under Item 7 targeting Israel, the only country-specific permanent item on the Council’s agenda, and one under Item 2.The four resolutions under Item 7 dealt with accusations of Israeli abuses in the Golan Heights (26 in favor, 16 against, and 5 abstentions), and the Palestinian territories (39 in favor, 3 against, and 5 abstentions), settlement construction (32 in favor, 5 against, 10 abstentions), and the right for Palestinian self-determination (41 in favor, 3 against, and 2 abstentions). The fifth resolution, on Israeli accountability for the violence on the Gaza border, was debated under Item 2 and passed with 23 in favor, 8 against, and 15 abstentions, gathering the support of less than half of the Council members.
“The United Nations Human Rights Council has again shown its true colors, cynically exploiting its mandate of promoting human rights worldwide by focusing obsessively on Israel, while missing the opportunity to address and contend with the ongoing abuses carried out by Hamas and the Palestinian Authority against their own people,” Singer said.
“Each of these resolutions derail any chance for meaningful and effective debate and underscore the fact that the Council has indeed become a theater of the absurd,” Singer added. “The resolutions on Palestinian human rights unbelievably never even once mention Hamas, the violence it incites against its own citizens, or its repeated use of civilians as human shields. The resolution on Golan is just as disconnected, going so far as to accuse Israel of obstructing the ‘fundamental rights’ of non-Jewish citizens in that area, while conveniently and completely ignoring that these citizens enjoy full protection under Israeli law and even voluntarily and proudly serve in the Israel Defense Forces.”
“These resolutions, and the very existence of the anti-Israel Item 7 as the only country-specific item on the Council’s agenda, fully disregard the realities and complexities on the ground, imposing wild double standards on the State of Israel, to the detriment and disservice of all,” Singer said. “This one-sided approach directly harms the prospects for a negotiated two-state solution as the only long-term answer to Palestinian suffering and undermines the UNHRC’s credibility as a body dedicated to defending human rights around the world and minimizes its chances of having a positive influence towards achieving peace in the region.
“The World Jewish Congress, under the leadership of President Ronald S. Lauder, reiterates its deep appreciation to those member states who did not support these resolutions, standing up for principle and morality. We urge all the democracies at the Council to adopt a similar stance, whenever and wherever such egregious allegations against Israel are raised. This is not just for the benefit of the State of Israel, but for human rights, truth and justice as a whole,” Singer said.

World Jewish Congress demands UN Human Rights Council remove anti-Israel Item 7 from its agenda

Geneva – The World Jewish Congress has renewed its calls on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to remove once and for all Agenda Item 7 targeting Israel, the only permanent item on the Council’s agenda against a particular country. The UNHRC is meeting now in Geneva for its 40th session.
During a debate on Item 7 on Monday, the Special Rapporteur on the Palestinian Territories and a Commission of Inquiry accused Israel of perpetuating human rights abuses in those territories. The United States has withdrawn from the Council over its ongoing bias.
“The UNHRC has again shown its blatant discrimination and double standards, spending approximately eight critical hours of debate scapegoating Israel rather than taking the opportunity to expose the accountability of the Palestinian leadership for the deterioration of human rights in the territories under their control,” said WJC CEO and Executive Vice President Robert Singer. “This one-sided approach will only contribute to the exacerbation of Palestinian suffering, as it absolves both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority of any wrong-doing, placing the blame erroneously and detrimentally on the State of Israel.”“Item 7 is only part of the problem at this Council. Later this week, member states will debate five egregious resolutions against Israel that fully ignore the realities and complexities on the ground in the region. They attack Israel and demand accountability without even a single mention of Hamas, the rulers of the Gaza Strip which indiscriminately uses civilians, including women and children, as human shields, and which routinely impose violence and stifling restrictions against its own people,” Singer said. “The UNHRC has become nothing more than a theater of the absurd. The World Jewish Congress will continue to speak out against this Council as long as the bias against Israel remains. We look forward to the day when the UN Human Rights Council resumes its focus on protecting human rights worldwide.”
In Geneva, WJC Jewish Diplomat Philippe Assouline spoke on the UNHRC floor against the Commission of Inquiry’s report accusing Israel of crimes against humanity in Gaza, calling it a “a flagrant disregard for the facts and basic decency” and a “manipulative lie.”
“Hamas’ march was a propaganda exercise to create heartbreaking images with which to abuse western compassion and indict Israel. Hamas understands well that their jihadi aggression will be eagerly supported by this body if enough children are killed for the cameras,” Assouline said. The report disregards the fact that the sole aim of the so-called March of Return last spring was to incite Palestinian civilians against their Israeli neighbors and ignores that Hamas “carefully planned this violence and ensured that children and civilians would take part – busing them in and encouraging them to attack border guards,” Assouline said.“Hamas is reported to have shot its own citizens last week for protesting the price of food. The Report would have us believe this government – a terrorist group known for targeting children and murdering dissidents — had no active hand in masses of its people violently storming an international border far from their homes, to murder families living peacefully beyond it,” Assouline added.Furthermore, the report “castigates Israel as an occupying power –revealing the anti-Israel psychosis that animates it. Gaza has been under Palestinian rule since 1994 and Israel completely vacated the territory in 2005! What a reward this report is for that brave step,” said Assouline. Assouline concluded: “This report is not merely irresponsible and embarrassing, it is dishonest. It is a blank check to terrorist groups. And its abject unfairness is why Israelis have no absolutely zero trust to the UN.”

World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder expresses horror and revulsion at terrorist attacks

New York World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder has expressed horror and revulsion at the reports of multiple casualties following terrorist attacks on two mosques in the city of Christchurch, New Zealand. Lauder said: “I would like to express my horror and revulsion at the terrorist attacks which have targeted people attending two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand today during Friday prayers. I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the victims, and to the people of New Zealand. We must redouble efforts to combat hatred and division in our societies, from wherever it emanates.”

World Jewish Congress horrified by Pittsburgh synagogue shooting

“The World Jewish Congress is shocked and horrified by the heinous act of terror that unfolded this morning at the Tree of Life Congregation Synagogue in Pittsburgh. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families and all the people of Pittsburgh,” WJC President Ronald S. Lauder said on Saturday, after a gunman opened fire outside of the building during morning services, leaving multiple casualties.“We commend the Pittsburgh police department for responding so quickly to this terrifying situation and preventing further casualties, and for effectively apprehending the assailant.” Lauder said. “It is unfathomable that in the United States of America, Jews or any one else should have to live in fear of being targeted simply because of who they are and where they choose to worship. This was an attack not just on the Jewish community, but on America as a whole. We must condemn this attack at the highest levels and do everything in our power to stop such atrocities from happening again.”The World Jewish Congress (WJC) is the international organization representing Jewish communities in 100 countries to governments, parliaments and international organizations.

The World Jewish Congress mourns the death of Senator John McCain

New York. The World Jewish Congress mourns the death of Senator John McCain, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 81. WJC President Ronald S. Lauder said:“I want to pay tribute to my friend Senator John McCain, a towering figure of American and international politics, who dedicated his life to serving his country, both as a heroic soldier and, of course, as a prolific senator. “Throughout his career, John McCain worked tirelessly on behalf of the American people, sticking by his principles for a better country and a better world. He was also a reliable friend of the State of Israel and a great supporter of the Jewish people. “John McCain was a unique and inspirational leader, the likes of whom we are unlikely to see again. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
The World Jewish Congress (WJC) is the international organization representing Jewish communities in 100 countries to governments, parliaments and international organizations.

Chelsea Football Club Joins World Jewish Congress

NEW YORK – The Chelsea Football Club on Thursday joined the World Jewish Congress’ #WeRemember campaign, as part of its own long-term educational initiative to raise awareness of the persisting phenomenon of anti-Semitism in sports. The WJC will also be partnering with Chelsea in promoting and developing the football club’s initiative, which was announced on Tuesday under the leadership of club owner Roman Abramovich, and will be launched officially on 31 January at the Premier League game against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge Stadium.“The World Jewish Congress deeply appreciates the comprehensive efforts being made by the Chelsea Football Club to raise awareness of the dangerous manifestations of anti-Semitism and racism in sports. The value of one of the most prominent sports clubs in the world vigorously leading the charge in addressing this crucial issue, cannot be overstated,” said World Jewish Congress CEO and Vice President Robert Singer. “Education is key to these efforts, and we encourage clubs and organizations in every field to emulate and embrace the initiatives being undertaken by Chelsea to make it clear that hatred has no place in sport.”Chelsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich told the World Jewish Congress upon announcing his organization’s educational campaign on Tuesday: “With people around the world observing International Holocaust Memorial Day later this month, we are reminded that there is still much to be done in the fight against anti-Semitism. That’s why I am proud to have launched, together with Chelsea Football Club, this initiative to challenge anti-Semitism in all its forms. I am very impressed by the important work the World Jewish Congress is doing in this area and am delighted, therefore, with the partnership we have entered into to jointly raise awareness of anti-Semitism in sport and together making an effort to tackle it.” (photo: Chelsea Football Club)

World Jewish Congress: Jerusalem as the capital of Israel

“President Trump has taken a critical and courageous step today in recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and reaffirming the United States’ commitment to a mutually agreed upon two-state solution. Jerusalem is the indisputable capital of Israel and the historic capital of the Jewish people. We hope that the US’ clear declaration to this effect, and its reiteration that this has long been its policy, sends a strong message to the international community of this truth.“The World Jewish Congress fully supports the US position that a peaceful solution to the longstanding conflict must be mutual, and we have affirmed this position in our organizational resolutions and advocacy on the international stage. “As President Trump so rightfully said, Jerusalem is a holy city for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, all of whom deserve to have their religious sites and historical connection respected. Israel has demonstrated its commitment to that ideal for the past 50 years.“President Trump is a true friend of the Jewish people and we deeply appreciate his call for calm. We hope that this declaration will be the beginning of a fresh political process and a move toward peace and stability in the Middle East.”The World Jewish Congress (WJC) is the international organization representing Jewish communities in 100 countries to governments, parliaments and international organizations.

World Jewish Congress head condemns attack on Muslims at Quebec City mosque

ATHENS – The head of the World Jewish Congress (WJC) on Monday expressed outrage over the terror attack at a mosque in Quebec City, Canada. At least six people were murdered by two masked gunmen on Sunday night, and eight wounded. In the Greek capital Athens, where he was attending a Holocaust remembrance ceremony, WJC President Ronald S. Lauder declared: “Muslim worshippers were brutally attacked last night in a horrific attack. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Islamic community and with the people of Canada, and we hope those who perpetrated this abhorrent act of mass murder will be brought to justice.”Lauder reiterated a statement he made last July, after the killing of a French priest near Rouen by terrorists: “We must not be intimidated by terrorism, but cherish our freedom, including the freedom to worship.“We must defend each other, and we must look after one another: one religious community after the other, one country after the other. The scourge of terrorism won’t be defeated unless we are united in our resolve to defeat it.”
The World Jewish Congress (WJC) is the international organization representing Jewish communities in 100 countries to governments, parliaments and international organizations.

Ronald S. Lauder: “We must stand as one in the face of this great threat”

NEW YORK – World Jewish Congress (WJC) President Ronald S. Lauder on Tuesday issued a strong condemnation of the terrorist attack at a church in Saint-Etienne-du-Rouvray, near Rouen, in France, calling it “a monstrous and evil act of murder committed against innocent people inside a house of worship.” Lauder conveyed his and the Jewish people’s condolences to the people of France, to Pope Francis and the leaders of the Catholic Church in France. Lauder said: “This morning, my thoughts and prayers are with the victims of yet another atrocious attack, and with the good people of France who sadly have become so familiar with the reality of terrorism in recent months.“Alas, there is no respite. Every day, these terrorists make it abundantly clear to the world that nothing is sacred to them, that they will not shy away from any execrable affront to the most basic values of our society.“Let’s be clear: this is not a war between religions, but between good and evil. We must stand as one in the face of this great threat. We must not be intimidated, but cherish our freedom, including the freedom to worship. We must speak out and not be silent. We must defend each other, and we must look after one another: one religious community after the other, one country after the other. This evil scourge won’t be defeated unless we are united in our resolve to defeat it,” said the WJC president.According to reports, an 86-year Catholic priest, Fr. Jacques Hamel, died after his throat was slit this morning in the church. Together with two nuns and two parishioners, Fr. Hamel had been being taken hostage by two men who reportedly shouted ‘Daesh’ (a synonym for the Islamist terror group ISIS) when storming into the church. One other victim was in a life-threatening condition, and the three other also suffered injuries.Police stormed the church at around 11 a.m. local time on Tuesday and killed the two attackers. French President François Hollande said in a statement that ISIS was behind the attack. Saint-Etienne-du-Rouvray lies on the outskirts of Rouen, the capital of the Normandy region in north-western France. It was the first such attack committed by jihadist terrorist against a church in Europe.

“Jews never give up”, says WJC President Ronald Lauder at event in Venice marking 500th anniversary of creation of Jewish ghett

VENICE – World Jewish Congress (WJC) President Ronald S. Lauder on Tuesday praised what he called “Jewish resilience” in the face of adversity and anti-Semitism. In an address commemorating the 500th anniversary of the establishment of the Venetian Jewish Ghetto, Lauder declared: “The creation of this ghetto was a terrible act; it was the first time that an entire community was separated because of their religion. […] And yet, in spite of this decree, the Jewish community still flourished within the walls.”
The WJC president told the congregation gathered at Venice’s La Fenice opera house, which included US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and a number of Italian dignitaries: “I always find it fascinating: When Jews are singled out and placed in intolerable situations, what are the first things they do? They build synagogues. They study. They write books. They compose music and plays, and create art.” Lauder went on to say: “Then, as now, the prime motivation of Jews was education and charity, not bitterness. Because of who they were, Jews were not defeated by the Venice ghetto, in spite of the effort to isolate them. And even though this was done to separate the two faiths, Jews and Christians continued to work together. “Because Jews were not allowed to publish books within the ghetto, they worked with Christian printers on the outside. Jewish physicians, musicians and artists found ways to collaborate with the world outside. Jews and Christians developed commercial and architectural projects together. Life continued in spite of the ghetto.” “Just like in the Venice Ghetto, Jews show the same resilience today. For 5,000 years, we haven’t disappeared, and that’s a very good thing, not just for us, but for the entire world. “We must be honest. Yes, there was anti-Semitism here in Italy, and at times, it was very brutal. Jews were isolated by severe decrees. The darkest hours occurred within my lifetime, when Italy was allied with Nazi Germany. But today, in Italy, where there was once anti-Semitism, the Italian government, the heads of parties, and the institutions, all actively fight anti-Semitism. And we appreciate this very much,” Lauder said. The WJC president ended his speech by thanking Italy for organizing the commemorative event and for fighting against anti-Semitism. He said: “On behalf of the World Jewish Congress, I want to thank you, the Italian people, for remembering this part of your past and looking squarely at your past. Because when you face the past with complete honesty, you actually create a much better future – for your children, for your country, and for all people.

World Jewish Congress leaders to gather in Rome, meet with Pope Francis

NEW YORK – Leaders of Jewish communities from around the world will gather in Rome next week for a meeting of the World Jewish Congress’ (WJC) Governing Board. On Tuesday, 27 October 2015, nearly 150 delegates and guests will discuss the situation of Jews around the world, as well as the current tensions in the Middle East, the refugee crisis in Europe and the Iranian threat. The following day, Pope Francis will receive the WJC leadership on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Vatican’s landmark declaration Nostra Aetate, which will be followed by a press conference by WJC President Ronald S. Lauder.
Following the papal address, WJC President Lauder will give a press conference at 3 pm CET (15:00) on 28 October 2015 at the Stampa Estera Association, Via dell’Umiltà, 83/c, Rome, to brief reporters about the meetings.
The Governing Board meeting will be chaired by David de Rothschild and attended by 150 heads of Jewish communities, delegates and young Jewish diplomats from around the world. Discussions will focus on the implications facing Jewish communities in light of the various conflicts in the Middle East, including the threat of jihadist terrorism, the aftermath of the nuclear agreement with Iran, the growing attacks on Israel by the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, and the state of relations with other faith communities.Some of the Board’s deliberations will be open to the media, while others will be closed discussions. Please contact any of the contact persons below for further information.
The WJC will be marking the 50th anniversary of the Nostra Aetate declaration, drawn up by the Second Vatican Council and promulgated by Pope Paul VI on 28 October 1965, condemning anti-Semitism and markedly improving relations between Jews and Catholics.On the anniversary of this important event, WJC delegates will take part in a public audience with Pope Francis on St. Peter’s Square, beginning at 10 am CET(10:00). Prior to that, the Catholic pontiff will receive WJC President Ronald S. Lauder in a private audience.
The World Jewish Congress (WJC) is the international organization representing Jewish communities in 100 countries to governments, parliaments and international organizations.

USC Shoah Foundation and World Jewish Congress announce global program to support 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz

NEW YORK – USC Shoah Foundation – The Institute for Visual History and Education and the World Jewish Congress will be supporting the official observance of the 70th anniversary of the liberation of with Auschwitz: The Past is Present, a global communication and education program. As part of the program, the World Jewish Congress will arrange for 100 survivors of Auschwitz, the German Nazi concentration and extermination camp, to attend and participate in the official observance of the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on 27 January 2015.The Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum and the International Auschwitz Council are the organizers of the official commemoration event. “27 January 2015 will be a truly exceptional day,” said Dr. Piotr M.A. Cywiński, director of the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum. “On this day of remembrance, the whole world will focus on the tragedy of the Shoah and the entire cruel system of ghettos and concentration camps. The survivors will be our most important guests.”“When we gather at the site of unspeakable terror, we will do so to show not only survivors, but the entire world, that the suffering of so many will never be forgotten,” said USC Shoah Foundation Executive Director Stephen D. Smith. “Those who lived through the Holocaust have carried the burden of remembering long enough. It’s up to us now, their children and grandchildren, to lift its heavy weight off their shoulders. We are ready to take on the responsibility of ensuring that this tragic chapter of human history is never repeated.”“Auschwitz is not only the world’s biggest Jewish graveyard, it is also the primary symbol of the Holocaust, the biggest organized mass murder in human history. This will probably mark the last time that so many survivors will be able to join us there, and we must ensure that the unspeakable suffering they and many others had to endure at Auschwitz will not be forgotten once they are no longer among us,” said WJC CEO Robert Singer.He went on to say: “The World Jewish Congress and our President Ronald S. Lauder are honored that such renowned partners have agreed to jointly prepare this important anniversary, to ensure that this anniversary will get the world’s attention.”An estimated 1.1 million people, most of them Jews, were murdered in Auschwitz, in German-occupied Poland, between 1941 and 1945.

World Jewish Congress to meet in Berlin in wake of sharp rise of anti-Semitism across Europe

NEW YORK/BRUSSELS – A sharp rise in anti-Semitic attacks and the growing hostility towards Israel will be among the subjects to be discussed at a meeting of the World Jewish Congress (WJC) in Berlin, which will take place from 14 to 16 September 2014. The WJC Governing Board will be chaired by David de Rothschild and attended by 150 heads of Jewish communities, delegates and young Jewish diplomats from around the world. Among the guest speakers will be Germany’s Economics Minister, Vice Chancellor Sigmar Gabriel, and Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier.In tribute to his lifetime efforts for reconciliation between Germans and Jews, and between Germany and Israel, the WJC’s Theodor Herzl Award will be bestowed posthumously on the late publisher Axel Springer, whose widow Friede Springer will receive it at a dinner at Berlin’s Jewish Museum on Monday, 15 September 2014.The participants will also take part in the rally against anti-Semitism organized by the Central Council of Jews in Germany in front of Berlin’s iconic Brandenburg Gate on Sunday, 14 September 2014, at 3 p.m., where German President Joachim Gauck, Chancellor Angela Merkel, and many other German leaders are expected.WJC President Ronald S. Lauder, who will be one of the speakers at the rally, said the WJC meeting in Berlin came at an important moment: “After the terrible hostilities against Jews we witnessed in the last eight weeks in Europe, following Israel’s legitimate action in the Gaza Strip, we are faced with a fundamental question: What needs to be done to ensure that the next generation of Jews has a future in Europe? This eruption of anti-Semitism has been an eye-opener for many people, and it would be wrong to go back to doing business as usual. Instead, we expect politicians and societies to address the root causes of this hatred, and to take appropriate action against it.”Reports will be given about Hamas and about the threats posed by jihadist fighters returning to their Western countries of origin. Another focus of the WJC meeting will be visits of the delegates to important Holocaust-related sites in Berlin, including the Wannsee Conference Memorial Exhibit, the ‘Gleis 17’ train platform at Berlin’s Grunewald Station from which many German Jews were deported to the Nazi death camps where there will be a wreath-laying ceremony, and to the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe near the Brandenburg Gate. This will take place in the morning of Tuesday, 16 September 2014. At ‘Gleis 17’, there will be a short ceremony and Kaddish will be recited.

World Jewish Congress praises Pope Francis for Inter-Religious Match for Peace initiative

NEW YORK – The World Jewish Congress has praised Pope Francis for co-organizing an international soccer match whose aim is to promote peace around the world and to raise funds for children in need. The ‘Inter-Religious Match for Peace’ at Rome’s Olympic Stadium on Monday will feature around 50 international stars and players with a Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist background, including Brazil’s Neymar, Israel’s Yossi Benayoun and France’s former international player Zinedine Zidane. Claudio Epelman, the WJC official in charge of dialogue with the Vatican, said: “By lending his backing to this initiative, Pope Francis has proved once again that he is open to unconventional and refreshing ideas on how to bring people together to unite for a common aim: peace. The Pope deserves our wholehearted support in this endeavor, and we hope he will succeed in bringing people from different religions closer together.”The Inter-Religious Match for Peace is the brainchild of retired Argentine captain Javier Zanetti and is being organized by the Scholas Occurrentes initiative, an Argentine project that aims to educate poorer people in different countries around the world, and Italy’s Fundazione PUPI, which works to unite people of different faiths.The World Jewish Congress and its Latin American branch, the Latin American Jewish Congress (LAJC), have long been active in fostering better relations between different faith leaders. In February, the LAJC organized a goodwill trip of a delegation of Argentine Jewish, Christian and Muslim leaders to the Middle East. At the end of their trip, the delegation was received in audience by Pope Francis. In May, Francis traveled to the Holy Land accompanied by a rabbi and a Muslim leader from his native Argentina.The World Jewish Congress (WJC) is the international organization representing Jewish communities in 100 countries to governments, parliaments and international organizations.

World Jewish Congress urges Italy to refuse accreditation of ‘anti-Semitic’ Hungarian envoy

NEW YORK – The head of the World Jewish Congress (WJC) on Thursday said that appointment of Hungarian far-right publicist Péter Szentmihályi Szabó as Hungary’s ambassador to Italy was “clearly an affront to Jews”. WJC President Ronald Lauder urged Italy to refuse the accreditation of Szentmihályi Szabó, who has penned anti-Semitic texts in the past. “A man who suggests that Hungary’s Jews are ‘agents of Satan’, ‘greedy, envious, evil and ugly’ is not fit to represent his country abroad, and Prime Minister Viktor Orbán would be well-advised to withdraw this man as soon as possible and look for a person who is suitable for this job,” said Lauder.“It is particularly sad and irritating that Hungary, which declared 2014 as Holocaust memorial year, is once again in the news with this sort of thing. How can an anti-Semite represent a government whose leader pledged a policy of zero tolerance toward anti-Semitism?” Lauder asked, referring to Orbán’s speech before the World Jewish Congress Plenary Assembly in Budapest in May 2013. He said decisions such as this would do further damage to Hungary’s reputation abroad and “does not inspire confidence that the Orbán government means business when it says it will fight anti-Semitism.”The WJC leader expressed hope that, given Italy’s history and strong commitment to fight racial hatred and anti-Semitism, the Italian government would not accept an outspoken extremist and Jew-hater as a member of the diplomatic corps in Rome.The appointment by Budapest of the 69-year-old Szentmihályi Szabó comes after a recent decision by the Hungarian government to build a controversial World War II monument that obfuscates Hungary’s role in the deportation of Jews to the Nazi death camps in 1944.
The World Jewish Congress (WJC) is the international organization representing Jewish communities in 100 countries to governments, parliaments and international organizations.

Born Free Launches Global Campaign to Keep Cheetahs Off Chains

NEW YORK – In reaction to the discovery of the bodies of the three Israeli teenagers abducted and murdered by terrorists on Monday, the World Jewish Congress (WJC) is mobilizing Jewish communities around the world in support of the victims’ families and the people of Israel. “This horrendous crime has sent shock waves throughout the Jewish world, and there have been outpourings of grief and of support for Israel,” declared WJC President Ronald S. Lauder. In a letter to all its affiliated communities and organizations in 100 countries, the World Jewish Congress urged that on Thursday, 3 July 2014, at 10:25 p.m. Israel time, the exact time of the abduction, the communities and organizations display a black page on their websites for three hours, with only the names of the three murdered teens appearing. WJC CEO Robert Singer urged that synagogues organize memorial services and that schools hold a special class devoted to the fate of the three boys. Singer also asked individuals to write condolence messages to the families of the boys. To the end, the WJC has opened a condolence book on its website: http://www.worldjewishcongress.org/condolences. Singer was in Israel for talks with senior Israeli government officials. In reaction to the news about the murders, Ronald S. Lauder urged the international community to halt cooperation with the Palestinian Authority until Hamas is excluded from all government bodies. “This murder must spur the world into action, and the fight against fanatic, extremist groups such as Hamas must be stepped up urgently,” said the WJC president, adding: “Clearly, Hamas is a terrorist organization, and it must be dismantled. It is the responsibility of Mahmoud Abbas to remove Hamas members from his government immediately and fight terrorism vigorously and urgently. He needs to show leadership now.”

 

World Jewish Congress head voices concern about neo-Nazi party in Argentina

BUENOS AIRES/NEW YORK – The World Jewish Congress today voiced its concern about the recent official registration in Argentina of a neo-Nazi party, Bandera Vecinal, a status that allows the party to compete in the 2015 presidential elections. “This ugly party espouses the ideology and revels in the trappings of the Hitler regime, and it should be banned, shunned and isolated, not accepted into politics,” said World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder. Claudio Epelman, Executive Director of the Latin American Jewish Congress, the Argentine-based arm of WJC, said that the organization views with great concern the official approval received by Bandera Vecinal, which translates to “Local Flag” in English. The party’s leader, Alejandro Biondini, has publicly and repeatedly praised Adolf Hitler and Nazism and is frequently pictured giving the Nazi salute surrounded by swastikas, Epelman said. “It is troubling that an openly neo-Nazi party can arise in this country. It’s inconsistent with the culture of acceptance and diversity among the Argentine people, whose country served as refuge for victims of the Nazi regime, a regime Biondini reveres,” Epelman said. “We will monitor the activities and discourse of Biondini’s party and will denounce any hate speech and incitement of violence against any minority groups in our country.”

Following arrest of suspect in Jewish museum attack, WJC brings solidarity mission to Brussels

BRUSSELS – A solidarity mission of the World Jewish Congress (WJC) to Brussels will take place next Monday (2 June) following the terrorist attack last Saturday at the city’s Jewish Museum, in which three people were killed and one gravely wounded. On Sunday, police announced the arrest of the suspected killer in France.  The mission will be led by WJC President  and include 25 senior representatives of Jewish communities from around the world. The delegation will hold talks with Belgium’s Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo, Foreign Minister Didier Reynders, Interior Minister Joëlle Milquet, Justice Minister Annemie Turtelboom, the head of Cabinet of the King of the Belgians, Frans van Daele, and the heads of the Jewish Museum, Philippe Blondin, and the Jewish community umbrella body CCOJB, Maurice Sosnowski.Lauder and Sosnowski will also give a WJC press conference on Monday at 13:00 (changed from 12:15), at the Steigenberger Grandhotel Brussels and brief the media about the impact this attack has on the Jewish community, the arrest of the suspected killer, and what lessons need to be learned from the incident. Ronald S. Lauder declared: “The entire Jewish world has been shocked by the horrible attack in the center of Brussels last week. We must now stand united with the community, and we also expect to get answers from Belgium’s politicians what will be done to ensure that the safety of Jews and Jewish institutions is improved and that Jews do not feel threatened.”