“Anti-Zionism: The Accepted Face of Antisemitism in Europe?” event in the European Parliament

EJC Executive Vice-President Raya Kalenova reiterated that, “The Shoah was beyond comprehension. Millions of lives were destroyed, families erased, dreams and futures stolen. And yet, Nuremberg gave those atrocities a name. It gave them a record. It gave humanity an answer: justice.”

EJC Executive Vice-President Raya Kalenova opened the meeting by praising the unity and solidarity of European Jewish communities.

The event brought together dozens of city leaders from around the world, policymakers, and community and civil society representatives, all united in their commitment to confront and prevent antisemitism in all its forms.

In his opening remarks, Dr Kantor expressed his relief at the return of all living hostages held by the terrorist organisation Hamas and his hope that the remaining bodies will soon be brought home. He emphasised that one of today’s most pressing challenges is youth radicalisation, increasingly fuelled by the misuse of social media and artificial intelligence to spread hate and false narratives.

The event, which was attended by Members of the European Parliament, diplomatic representatives, high-level EU officials, journalists, leaders of Jewish organisations, and many friends and allies, became an emotional call to conscience. It sent a powerful message to the world: to never forget and ensure that such horror is never repeated.

During the General Assembly, leaders of Jewish communities in Europe had the opportunity to update their colleagues on the challenges and opportunities in their respective countries.

The focus of the conference was on judicial responses to hate crimes, dismantling stereotypes and biases against faith-based communities, and examining the impact of prejudice and discrimination, all while incorporating a gender perspective.

This unique event breathed life back into the choral synagogue and featured performances by renowned musicians and artists from France, Israel, and the United States, honouring the memory of the victims of the Shoah and symbolically restoring the voices silenced by barbarity.

Participants attended an exclusive screening of the animated film The Most Precious of Cargoes, a poignant adaptation of Jean-Claude Grumberg’s novel, directed by Academy Award winner Michel Hazanavicius, which was selected to compete for the Palme d’Or at the 77th Cannes Film Festival.

Participants had the opportunity to exchange views with French Minister Delegate for European Affairs, Benjamin Haddad, who presented France’s efforts in the fight against antisemitism, the promotion of Jewish life and culture, and the need to safeguard Jewish communities across Europe.

The conference was dedicated to enhancing security efforts and raising awareness about the protection of Jewish communities in the European Union, focusing on best practices and effective strategies. Discussions explored the evolving security landscape, the impact of global terrorism, and the tools needed to protect vulnerable communities.

The event was attended by Ambassadors, Members of the European Parliament and national parliaments, European Commission lawmakers, diplomatic officials, representatives of international organisations, and leaders of the Belgian Jewish community and Jewish organisations based in Brussels.