Austrian Federal Minister Karoline Edtstadler presented the Grand Decoration of Honour in Gold for Services to the Republic of Austria to IKG President Oskar Deutsch.
In a laudatory speech, President of the European Jewish Congress Dr Ariel Muzicant acknowledged Oskar Deutsch’s unwavering commitment to Jewish life in Austria and his tireless efforts in the fight against antisemitism.
In 2012, Oskar Deutsch was elected President of the Jewish Community of Vienna (IKG) for the first time and was re-elected in 2017 and 2022. Additionally, he represents the Jewish community throughout Austria.
Oskar Deutsch has been a member of the IKG’s board since 1989 and is dedicated to supporting the Jewish community and fostering dialogue with the wider Austrian population. He is a staunch advocate for safeguarding Jewish life in Austria and consistently fights against antisemitism.
Oskar Deutsch has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including the negotiations surrounding the Austrian-Jewish Cultural Heritage Act, the support of Jewish refugees from Ukraine, and the establishment of aid funds during the COVID-19 pandemic as head of the crisis team.
Another milestone during his tenure was the construction of the Eruv in Vienna, an important development for religious Jewish life in the city.
He also works tirelessly to engage with the non-Jewish majority, promoting interfaith dialogue, sustainability, and enhanced security cooperation with the authorities.
Deutsch collaborates closely with political leaders to promote Jewish life and combat antisemitism, particularly in the wake of the global rise in antisemitism, which has intensified in Austria following the Hamas massacre in Israel on 7 October 2023.
“Oskar Deutsch is distinguished by his tireless commitment to a flourishing Jewish life and the Jewish communities in Austria. With unwavering dedication, he has not only advanced the fight against antisemitism but also made a lasting impact on the promotion of Jewish life in Austria. His work represents an indispensable contribution to our democracy and coexistence. Together, we have implemented groundbreaking projects with an impact extending far beyond our borders, serving as a model for other nations. For his extraordinary and exemplary work, Federal President Alexander van der Bellen awarded him the Grand Golden Decoration of Honour for Services to the Republic. It is my privilege to present this decoration of honour today in recognition of his remarkable achievements,” said Federal Minister Karoline Edtstadler.
