Spain currently holds the prestigious position of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, a key component of the EU's decision-making structure. The Council, consisting of ministers from all 27 EU member states, wields significant legislative and budgetary power alongside the European Parliament. Every six months, the presidency of the Council rotates among the member states. Decisions by the Council heavily influence the direction and priorities of the European Union.
The European Union has consistently shown its commitment to addressing antisemitism, evident in its adoption of a comprehensive strategy to combat such prejudice. The EU also works actively in promoting Holocaust education and remembrance, supporting the Jewish community, and aiding civil society organizations in their battle against antisemitism.
A Glimpse into Spain's Rich Jewish Legacy
Spain, a nation steeped in history, boasts a Jewish heritage that spans over a millennium. The Middle Ages saw Spain nurturing one of Europe's most vibrant and sizable Jewish communities. However, in 1492, a turning point came with the Alhambra Decree, when the Catholic Monarchs expelled Jews from Spain and initiated the Inquisition. This sorrowful episode notwithstanding, Jewish culture has continued to influence Spanish society and culture profoundly.
In the present day, Spain is reconnecting with this profound legacy, recognizing the immense contribution of the Jews to its cultural identity and taking steps to preserve and celebrate this shared history.
Interested in understanding the present-day Jewish community in Spain? Watch this informative video.
Highlighting Sephardic Heritage: Collaborative Events by the World Jewish Congress and the Spanish Government
During Spain’s EU presidency, the World Jewish Congress, in collaboration with the Spanish government, has planned a series of global events, spotlighting Sephardic heritage and contemporary Jewish life in Spain:
- Panel Discussion on the Promotion and Preservation of Jewish Heritage in Paris, France: Held at the UNESCO headquarters, this event, in conjunction with the Permanent Delegation of Spain to UNESCO, aims to engage Jewish Heritage experts in a conversation about sustainable tourism, education, and awareness.
- Combating Antisemitism and Fostering Jewish Life in Spain—Past and Present in Washington DC, US: Together with the Embassy of Spain in Washington, DC, the WJC is orchestrating an event that will spotlight Spain’s robust plan to challenge antisemitism and promote Jewish life, with a special focus on Spain’s rich Sephardic culture.
- Celebrating Jewish Sephardic Heritage and Life in Spain in New York, US: In collaboration with the Consulate General of Spain in New York, the WJC is organizing an event spotlighting the vibrant Sephardic heritage and Jewish life in the Iberian Peninsula, using music and food as a cultural bridge linking communities from Spain and Portugal to the US.
- Honoring Jewish Sephardic Legacy in Spain in Miami, US: A multi-faceted event gathering the Sephardic community to reminiscence and celebrate the Jewish cultural contributions to Spain and the world at large.
These events underscore the mutual commitment of Spain and the World Jewish Congress to fostering an understanding of Jewish history and fighting prejudice, ensuring a future where Jewish life flourishes across the European Union and beyond.
