NEW YORK – The World Jewish Congress acknowledges the decision by the Swedish government to postpone the Malmö International Forum on Holocaust Remembrance and Combating Antisemitism until 2021. Considering the health emergency that the world is currently facing, the uppermost priority must be to guarantee the safety and wellbeing of all.
We recognize the firm commitment of Prime Minister Stefan Löfven and his government to advancing the preservation of Holocaust memory and combating the prevalence and growth of antisemitism. From the outset, the World Jewish Congress has worked very closely with Sweden on the planning of the ‘Malmö Forum.’ We look forward to continuing our close cooperation with the government to ensure the success of this landmark gathering, including by fostering an impactful international collaboration in these fields.
Unfortunately, since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have witnessed a worrying increase in antisemitism, especially online, where Jews, and other minorities, are being blamed for creating and propagating the coronavirus. This marks only the latest expression of this millennia-old hatred, which must remain a priority for governments, the international community and civil society. The Malmö Forum will therefore be a vital platform to reaffirm that we cannot be complacent, emphasizing the critical need for governments and key stakeholders to take stronger actions to ensure this important fight will continue, by addressing all sources and expressions of this vile hatred.
###
About the World Jewish Congress
The World Jewish Congress (WJC) is the international organization representing Jewish communities in 100 countries to governments, parliaments and international organizations.
Media contact
Samantha Kupferman
West End Strategy Team
Cell: +1 202-215-9260
