The representative Jewish organisations in Belgium have written an open letter requesting the resignation of Flemish Minister of Culture Caroline Gennez for supporting the decision of the Ghent Festival to cancel the concert of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra due to the nationality of its conductor.
“Mr Prime Minister,
Mr President,
The outrage following the cancellation by the organisers of the Flanders Festival Ghent of the concert of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra, due to the Israeli nationality of its conductor Lahav Shani, was widely shared in Belgium at the highest level of the state and internationally.
It is contrary to the principles of a democratic society to censor a person in this way because of his nationality.
That the Flemish Minister of Culture, Caroline Gennez, supports this outrageous decision is a disgrace for Flanders and for Belgium, and constitutes an attack on the rule of law.
In such a context, it is unthinkable that Caroline Gennez should remain a member of the Flemish Government. We therefore demand, in the name of our organisations, her resignation.
Sincerely,
Baroness Regina Sluszny
President, Forum of Jewish Organisations (FJO)
Yves Oschinsky
President, Comité de Coordination des Organisations Juives de Belgique (CCOJB)”
