World Jewish Congress condemns brutal stabbing of Gdansk Mayor Pawel Adamowicz

NEW YORK - The World Jewish Congress mourns the tragic death of Gdansk Mayor Pawel Adamowicz who succumbed to a brutal stabbing inflicted at a public charity concert in the northern Polish city over the weekend.

“The World Jewish Congress is shocked and disturbed by the horrific attack unleashed against Gdansk Mayor Pawel Adamowicz, and we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his family and constituents,” said WJC President Ronald S. Lauder.

“Mayor Adamowicz was a leading voice of opposition against far-right extremism, and a proponent of equal rights and security for all citizens of Poland. He was a true friend of the Jewish community, speaking loudly and clearly against antisemitism in Poland. This was an attack not just on the mayor, but on the very value of tolerance,” Lauder said.

“It is our deep hope that this horrific murder will not dissuade proponents of democracy and acceptance from continuing to embrace and promote these very messages that Mayor Adamowicz carried throughout his life and career,” Lauder added.