Hungarian Minister for EU Affairs: “If we lose our Jewish communities, we lose our European identity”

In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Hungarian Minister for European Union Affairs János Bóka warned that the growing threat to Jewish life in Europe, exacerbated by rising antisemitism in Western EU countries, poses a significant challenge to the continent’s identity and culture. He emphasised that antisemitic attacks undermine the foundational values of European society.

In what way is this declaration different from other joint documents adopted by the EU on these matters?

There are two important elements to consider regarding this declaration. The first is the timing: it was adopted in mid-October, a year after the brutal and unprecedented terrorist attacks against Israel. For the Hungarian presidency, it was crucial to demonstrate that the EU remains committed to combating antisemitism and protecting Jewish life. It served as a sign of solidarity with Israel and its people.

The second significant aspect is the focus, as highlighted in the title of the declaration, on fostering Jewish life in the EU. While the fight against antisemitism has been a recurring issue on the EU’s agenda, the idea of fostering Jewish life is a new approach introduced by the Hungarian government.

This initiative is based on the belief that our foremost responsibility lies with our Jewish communities in Europe. These communities form an integral part of Europe’s heritage. Without them, Europe would lose its identity and cultural essence.

“I believe we must ensure Jewish communities feel welcome in Europe. Their safety and security should be guaranteed, and we must provide an enabling environment in which they can thrive,” Bóka remarked. “By strengthening these communities and helping them prosper, we also tackle antisemitism. The best way to combat antisemitism is to foster Jewish life in Europe. This is the new perspective we sought to reflect in this declaration.”

Is the explosion of antisemitism in Western EU countries since 7 October an existential threat to Jewish life?

“I believe it is. More importantly, Jewish communities across Europe share this concern,” Bóka noted. He explained that the resurgence of antisemitism, linked to ongoing demographic and social changes in Western Europe, presents a fresh challenge and a severe threat to the security of Jewish communities. “We need to recognise this and address it directly.”

Will Europeans start recognising the connection between antisemitism and anti-Israelism?

“We are doing our best to keep this critical issue on the agenda. The nature of antisemitism is constantly evolving, seeking new and contemporary expressions. Today, anti-Zionism and anti-Israelism have become its primary vehicles,” he explained.

Bóka warned that the international community inadvertently legitimises this new wave of antisemitism by cloaking it in the language of international law and cooperation. This provides a veneer of credibility, making it easier to incite antisemitic sentiments.

Are declarations and joint statements enough, or is fighting antisemitism a lost battle?

“I firmly believe it is our moral duty to combat antisemitism in all its forms using every tool at our disposal,” he said. However, Bóka cautioned against reducing antisemitism to a legal or procedural issue or framing it as a partisan debate.

“My proposal is to put Jewish communities at the centre of our efforts. They are the reason behind our activities. The most effective way to counter antisemitism in Europe is to ensure Jewish communities prosper, flourish, and feel welcome,” he emphasised.

Does the recent wave of antisemitism reflect an ‘intifada’ against the West?

“If we lose our Jewish communities, we will lose our European identity. Europe will no longer be Europe as we know it,” Bóka warned. He argued that the attacks are part of a larger strategy to dismantle European civilisation and identity incrementally, paving the way for a fundamental transformation of Europe.

How do you view the political weaponisation of international law against Israel?

“I believe international legal tools and institutions are being weaponised against the State of Israel. This strategy has proven effective and will likely be used more aggressively in the future,” he observed.

Bóka argued that such practices undermine international law and institutions, which could lead to their diminished legitimacy and effectiveness in moments of genuine need.

Do these actions undermine Western democracy?

“I wouldn’t go that far,” Bóka replied. “However, this approach relativises the values upon which Europe is founded. Equating a sovereign state with functioning democratic institutions to a terrorist organisation, such as Hamas, misinterprets and delegitimises the very basis of a democratic society.”

How would you summarise Hungary’s EU presidency?

“Our presidency can be characterised by three words: ‘characteristic,’ ‘active,’ and ‘strategic,’” Bóka said.

“It was characteristic because it reflected Hungary’s vision for the EU, even if it differed from other member states. It was active because we proposed numerous initiatives and tackled sensitive issues, such as Schengen enlargement and Western Balkans accession. Lastly, it was strategic because we focused on long-term discussions about the EU’s competitiveness, agricultural policy, and security.”

In conclusion, Bóka stated, “I believe our presidency was a success, and there is growing understanding and support for our objectives among European citizens.”

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