WJC @ UNHRC 46: Developments in the fight against antisemitism - World Jewish Congress

WJC @ UNHRC 46: Developments in the fight against antisemitism

Geneva – On behalf of the World Jewish Congress, WJC Jewish Diplomat Corps Member Jonathan Aiach (UK) delivered a statement to the United Nations Human Rights Council on March 18th urging all countries in the Middle East and beyond to implement the IHRA definition of antisemitism.

“In 2020, the world witnessed a major shift in diplomatic relations between Israel and some Arab countries. One of the most significant developments is the commitment taken by those countries to fight antisemitism and to develop initiatives to foster respect and mutual understanding between cultures. 

“One example is the adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism by important institutions in the Kingdoms of Bahrain and Morocco, which both committed to combat antisemitism. The international Global Imams Council, comprised of over 1,000 imams across different denominations, also adopted the IHRA definition in October 2020.” 

“Last October, during their historic first meeting in Germany, the foreign ministers of Israel and the UAE visited the Holocaust Memorial in central Berlin. “Whatever led to the murder of millions of innocent victims will not happen again,” UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed declared during the visit.” 

“The World Jewish Congress commends these initiatives and urges all countries in the Middle East and beyond to implement similar ones. Through cultural exchanges, the recognition of a shared history and common values and fruitful cooperation, we will be able to create durable bonds between Israel and its neighbors, bringing more peace and stability to the region as a whole, as well as pave the way for more understanding between Jewish and Muslim communities.” 

The WJC Jewish Diplomatic Corps is the flagship program of the World Jewish Congress, under the vision and leadership of WJC President Ronald S. Lauder. Members of the WJC Jewish Diplomatic Corps have delivered over 90 statements on behalf of the WJC at the UN Human Rights Council over the past six years. 

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