World Jewish Congress

Community Affairs

The World Jewish Congress is not blind to the challenges facing Jewish communities around the world. Whether it is ensuring that all Jews—no matter their background—have a voice, or in navigating the relationship between Israel and Diaspora Jewry, the WJC provides a space for Jews to come together and work towards the future in the spirit of mutual respect and according to the Talmudic maxim: ‘Kol Yisrael Arevim Zeh b’Zeh’ —all Jews are responsible for one another.

Our more than 100 affiliates from across six continents represent their Jewish communities. Diverse as the Jewish people itself—ranging from the largest communities in Israel, the United States, France, Canada and the UK, to some of the most tiny, remote communities in countries such as Tajikistan, North Macedonia and Kenya—the World Jewish Congress would not be what it is without these communities.

What We're Doing 

The WJC works tirelessly together with our communities and advocates on their behalf and in consultation with them to ensure that they can maintain and celebrate the Jewish religion, culture, and heritage, all in accordance with local circumstances and needs. This includes defending religious practices integral to Jewish life, such as kosher slaughter (shechita) and circumcision (milah), preserving the memory of the Holocaust, combating antisemitism, educating new generations of community members, informing civil society about the local contribution of Jews, and enabling communities to reach out to their young adults to promote their involvement in community leadership. We do this in a multitude of ways, from diplomatic engagement to online campaigns and local events, as well as continued efforts aimed at developing potential leadership within communities and providing networking resources for community professionals.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the WJC has remained committed to providing Jewish communities worldwide with proper resources as they grapple with the health, economic, and social impacts of the unprecedented crisis. WJC President Lauder assured communities of this support in immediate response to the global outbreak, and issued a call for solidarity across the Jewish world: “The social distancing we have all been compelled to undertake should become a tool of community-building and social-bonding. We must ensure that Jewish life isn’t enfeebled, but empowered.”

Our Resolutions