As antisemitism continues to surge both online and in communities worldwide in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack on Israel, the World Jewish Congress’ National Community Directors Forum (NCDF) held a critical meeting this week to share experiences and formulate next steps.
The programming provided dozens of community directors with practical tools and fostered innovative approaches to enhance the resilience and vitality of Jewish life globally. The meeting in Sofia, co-hosted by Shalom Bulgaria, an affiliated community of the World Jewish Congress, also provided a space for Jewish leaders – all of them have had to grapple with antisemitism in their communities – to develop strategies and coordinate approaches.
"WJC is committed to fostering unity and understanding across diverse communities,” said Maram Stern, executive vice president of the World Jewish Congress. “In these challenging times, it is more important than ever to stand together against hate and intolerance. Our collaborative efforts aim to build a future where mutual respect and solidarity are the foundations of our global society.”
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Monday, 17 June 2024
Opening of 9th National Community Director’s Forum
The 9th National Community Director’s Forum opened with a warm welcome by Maxim Delchev, executive director of WJC’s local affiliate, the Organization of Jews in Bulgaria-Shalom followed remarks from Maram Stern, executive Vice President of WJC. In the aftermath of October 7th terrorist attack, and the subsequent rise in antisemitism, this forum is an essential platform for Jewish leaders to strategize on effective measures to increase overall betterment of their respective communities, and Jews worldwide.
NCDF Session I: Building Jewish Community Resilience in Uncertain Times
The session underscored the need for Jewish communities persevering through hardship amid rising antisemitism following the October 7th terrorist attack. It focused on highlighting the strengths, capabilities, and determination to uphold their cultural identity in the face of a new reality.
NCDF Session II: Working Together – Breakouts
Community directors were broken into seven groups, each corresponding to one of seven countries spoken about in the prior session. Discussions centered on the changing dynamics of several countries and outlined how best to respond, including through coordination through the global Jewish community.
NCDF Session III: Breakout Sessions
Directors were asked to choose from the five following sessions: 1) Protecting Our Communities after October 7th 2) Elevating Young Leaders for Our Communities 3) Finding Jewish Unity: Understanding a New Jewish Reality 4) Breaking Barriers, Advancing Gender Equality and Inclusion in Jewish Communities 5) Be Your Own Social Media Content Creator.
The sessions provided necessary information, tools, and varying perspectives on how to create a better tomorrow for Jewish communities worldwide.
Diplomatic Reception
WJC hosted a diplomatic reception with diplomats around the world. Remarks were given by WJC Executive Vice President Maram Stern, Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom” President Alek Oskar, as well as Alina Levi.
Tuesday, 18 June 2024
NCDF Session IV: WJC Diplomatic Outreach
In an effort to assist Jewish communities in advocating for their interests and bring attention to their concerns, WJC held several session led by led by Lauren Rose, Executive Director, Diplomacy & International Institutions, with Dany Levin Prist, European Union Affairs Manager and Ernest Herzog, Head of Combatting Antisemitism, Intelligence & Security.