The forum is run by Jewish Agency CEO Amira Ahronoviz and Ministry of Diaspora Affairs Director-General Dvir Kahana, who will also oversee its operations and implementation of its plans of action. Together as world Jewry, we will build a strong working forum that will provide and achieve concrete solutions for all of our communities.” Their united spirit is inspiring as they work together to provide a stable platform for assistance on a regular basis. The global forum comprised 30 regional umbrella organizations, representing Jewish communities around the world, which have the ability to provide a community-wide assessment, and who together are committed to gathering all knowledge, experience and leadership needed for strengthening communities’ resilience and restoring global Jewish life.Īfter the conclusion of the call, Yankelevich imparted that she was “humbled to see how Jewish communities everywhere are faring in these troubled times and how they are striving to share ideas, learn from each other’s mistakes and grow together. Leveraging the global presence of these organizations, leaders discussed the impact of the current crisis, the related challenges, as well as opportunities and possible responses. The leaders of the Jewish organizations followed by presenting their in-depth perspectives regarding the challenge facing the global Jewish community. “For the first time in the history of the State of Israel, we established a formal forum to assist Jewish communities around the world. These pressing matters will continue to be addressed in upcoming forum meetings and in subcommittees on each topic. Jewish Agency Chairman Isaac Herzog presented an overview of five main areas of discussion: Community – the need for rehabilitation and assistance in surviving the crisis Resources – effectively collecting and distributing aid Hope and morale – promoting unity and mutual responsibility Education – current and future needs and Antisemitism – preparation for future outbreaks. “Together as world Jewry, we will build a strong working forum which will provide and achieve concrete solutions for all of our communities,” she said. The call began with introductory remarks by the new Minister for Diaspora Affairs, Omer Yankelevich, who underscored the importance of Jewish unity and cooperation to ensure the collective safety and success of all Jews. The World Jewish Congress was among the participating organizations, represented by Co-chair of the WJC Policy Council Robert Goot. More than 30 leaders from major Jewish organizations around the world participated this week in a virtual roundtable forum organized by the Jewish Agency for Israel and Israel’s Ministry of Diaspora Affairs to assess the devastating impact COVID-19 has had on Jewish communities worldwide and the necessary steps to address their most pressing needs.

Omer yankelevich