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2012-2014

European Union of Jewish Students

With the support of

2012-2014

Written by Andi Gergely Edited by Gabriella Horowitz Designed by Eric Kounio Special Thanks to Dborah Abisror and Nathan Chicheportiche

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT.


Dear EUJS Friends, I am proud to present to you the 2012-2014 Activity Report of the European Union of Jewish Students. It is my pleasure to introduce the activities and accomplishments of the past two years of Europe's largest Jewish student organization. One of EUJS' highest priorities was to continue the tradition of the Summer University which has become a prominent symbol of Jewish life in Europe over the past 30 years. EUJS has also expended its activities in the United Nations: we brought delegations of students from all over Europe, spoke up in the Human Rights Council against the demonization of Israel and the treatment of minorities, and met ambassadors and policy makers of the transnational organisations of the UN. When a Hungarian Nazi criminal was found living in Budapest, EUJS organised a protest to urge the authorities to file charges against him and he was arrested the next day. We succeeded in showing the world that we never forget these trials, and we're not afraid to seek justice. For the past two decades, EUJS has been at the forefront of interfaith and intercultural dialogue in Europe, and the past two years were no different. We believe that young European activists have the ability and will to create stronger and better relationships between different communities, and we want to cultivate a stronger and more tolerant Europe for the future. Unfortunately, over the past two years there has been a significant rise in extremism and anti-Semitism in Europe. We have dedicated our energy to combating these hateful phenomena. For example, we organized a seminar in Amsterdam about the rise of extremism in Europe, and we've partnered with other European organizations who are also dedicated to fighting hatred.

by Andi Gergely Chairperson of E.U.J.S

Our board has maintained close relationships with our member unions, and we have had constant personal contact with the head of student unions to ensure that we are always catering our programs to the needs of European Jewish students. As I approach the end of my two-year term as President of EUJS, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my friends and colleagues Deborah Abisror and Nathan Chicheportiche, the Executive Directors of EUJS, for their professionalism and passion for EUJS, as well as for their values and accomplishments. I want to thank the Members of the Presidium for dedicating their time, energy and abilities to make EUJS what it is today, an organization full of new ideas, projects and a bright vision for the future of European Jewry. In particular I would like to thank all students who participated in our activities, I am astonished by the number of students and young professionals EUJS have touched and what a huge difference that has made in the lives of those individuals as well as in the EUJS community. None of this would have been possible without and support of all our partners and individuals who have given us so much on the professional and personal levels. I would like to reiterate my deepest gratitude. I would also like to use this opportunity to wish so much luck to the next generation of EUJS leaders. Representing the needs of 200.000 Jewish youth of Europe is not an easy task, but I am confident in their abilities and passion to let EUJS and Jewish student activism thrive in the future.

AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE: ABOUT EUJS


The European Union of Jewish Students (EUJS) is the umbrella organization for thirty-five national Jewish student unions in Europe and the Former Soviet Union, representing over 200,000 Jewish students. Founded in 1978 in Grenoble, France, and formerly known as the European Section of the World Union of Jewish Students, the formation of EUJS solidified a strong and independent Jewish student leadership in Europe. In 1982, EUJS opened its office in Brussels, Belgium, from where it continues to operate. Cognizant of the religious, linguistic and cultural diversity that make up the European Jewish community, EUJS strives to present a variety of perspectives through its leadership training programs, educational seminars, and international conferences, all tailor-made to the needs of its students. EUJS has placed itself at the cutting edge of inter-cultural and inter-religious programming in the European context. tions, and is a member of the World Union of Jewish Students (WUJS). EUJS is one of the largest international student organizations worldwide and the first Jewish Youth NGO to obtain the special Consultative Status to the ECOSOC of the United Nations. Its annual programming includes the Summer University, international, inter-religious, inter-generational seminars, study sessions at the European Youth Centre, and cutting edge work that puts it at the forefront of the European context.

EUJS PRESIDIUM 2012 - 2013 CHAIRPERSON: ANDI GERGELY EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS: DEBORAH ABISROR NATHAN CHICHEPORTICHE (ITALY) (FRANCE) (GREECE) (SWITZERLAND) (UKRAINE) (TURKEY) (POLAND) (BELGIUM) T reasurer

PRESIDIUM MEMBERS TANA ABENI ELIE PETIT ERIC KOUNIO JANE BRADEN-GOLAY VICTORIA GODIK In understanding that todays students SALVO MORHAYIM are tomorrows leaders, EUJS operates ANNA BAKULA on the basis that the students which it NICOLAS OSTROVSKY serves and represents have a duty to act as leaders today, paving the way for a future infused with a strong Jewish identity and in turn, a commitment to the humanistic ideals embraced by Judaism.
As stipulated in its founding charter, the European Union of Jewish Students was created to foster the unity of Jewish Students at a European level and to ensure their participation in the fulfilment of the aspirations of the Jewish people, its continuity and the development of its cultural, religious, social and spiritual heritage. EUJS is a constituent member of the European Youth Forum, the leading platform for more than 90 national youth councils and international NGOs, and is the only Jewish organization represented at that level. It is supported by the Council of Europe, the European Commission, all recognized Jewish organiza-

OUR PROGRAMS
The agenda of the European Union of Jewish Students features six main themes 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. A Right of Passage: EUJS Summer University One Voice: Jewish Youth Take the Floor European Citizenship A Coat of Many Colours: Inter-faith and Inter-cultural Dialogue In Memorys Shadow: Genocide Education and Awareness Diplomacy and Advocacy: Balance and Dedication EUJS Actions

The following is a list of programs, events, and ongoing initiatives that have served as the vehi cles through which our ongoing objectives are being achieved.

1. A RIGHT OF PASSAGE: EUJS SUMMER UNIVERSITY


Every year, the European Union of Jewish Students organizes Summer University, the largest annual gathering of European Jewish students, and the single largest European Jewish event to occur on an annual basis. As the highlight of EUJS Jewish-student focused programming since 1983, Summer University has developed into an institution and a symbol of Jewish life, Jewish youth, and a vibrant Jewish continuity for hundreds of thousands of young people on the continent. This one of a kind event provides a unique opportunity for approximately 500 young European Jews to interact, while assembling a week-long educational program, allowing students to raise and voice their concerns to a roster of internationally renowned speakers, ranging from political representatives, leaders of NGOs, academics, religious and cultural figures. Summer University is the launching ground for future generations of student and professional leadership; it is the gateway through which student involvement in EUJS and its member unions often begins. Above all, Summer University embodies an incredible networking experience for both participants and visiting speakers and intellectuals, and an exceptional annual experience for European Jewish youth to interact as Jews on Jewish issues. Thematically Summer U seeks to address all issues of concern to its participants ranging from Jewish culture, entertainment, and education, Jewish identity and tradition, anti-Semitism, Israel and Zionism, Shoah (Holocaust) and Genocide education, Inter-faith dialogue, politics, history, leadership, democracy and active citizenship. Conceptually, Summer U celebrates Jewish life and strong Jewish identity throughout the week, European citizenship and enables the participants to return home empowered, inspired and enlightened by the power of European Jewish youth and our joint responsibility towards Jewish continuity. Therefore, Summer University is so much more than an EUJS annual event it is the future of the Jewish life on the continent, it is the hope for Jewish continuity, it is a home for the revival of Jewish identity, and it is the only address at which Judaism and youth are joined together in an innovative, modern, and inspiring way.

1.1 SUMMER U 2012- SZARVAS HUNGARY: AUGUST 2012


The 29th EUJS Summer University took place in Szarvas, Hungary at the Lauder Joint Jewish summer camp in cooperation with the Joint Distribution Committee. 250 young Jews from all over Europe, Israel, North America, South America and South Africa gathered together for a week to experience Jewish student activism and enjoy a good time together. In 2012, three new initiatives were introduced to Summer U. First and foremost, the EUJS Student Leadership Track was launched, aiming to develop and foster skills as well as create a strong partnership among Europes student leaders. Tailored specifically to the needs of our member unions, a select group of participants had the chance to deepen their knowledge of project and volunteer management, strategy development, public speaking, and social media PR methods. Secondly, in an effort to connect to Summer Us host country, EUJS created a daily Situation Tent. Every day, Hungarian team members organized a different discussion about current issues facing the Jewish community in Hungary. The topics included anti-Semitism, minority rights, the situation of the LGBT community, and the future of the Jewish community in Hungary. The ensuing conversations were thought-provoking and eye-opening, and the participants expressed deep empathy and solidarity with their Hungarian peers. Finally, the collaboration with the French group JewSalsa provided this years Summer U program with a professional artistic framework. From dance classes to percussion workshops and spontaneous jam session, David El Shatran and his team successfully fused Jewish Ashkenazi and Sephardic traditions with Latin elements. A large group of Summer U participants joined him to film an original YouTube music video to celebrate Rosh HaShanah. Search for Apple is Dancing Salsa on YouTube to view our film!

1.2 SUMMER U 2013 SAINT TROPEZ, FRANCE : AUGUSTSEPTEMBER 2013


EUJS was thrilled to hold the 30th annual Summer U and the 35th anniversary of EUJS in France. The event organized in cooperation with the French Union of Jewish Students (UEJF) gathered 400 young Jews coming from 36 countries. The week-long program combined a wide selection of activities, ranging from sessions, workshops and panel discussions to sports, dance and arts and crafts, all catering to the broad interests of modern young Jews. EUJS was honored to host special guests such as Hillel Neuer (UN Watch), Robert Singer (WJC), Irvin Mujcic (ternYpe) and many other distinguished guests For the second year, EUJS offered a special leadership track with the support of AJC - designed for student union leaders from all over Europe. This Summer U also marked the 29th General Assembly and the elections of a new EUJS board and chairperson whose 2 years mandate will start in January 2014. Summer U 2013 was also the launching point for the Global Campus Initiative (GCI), a worldwide campaign to combat the de-legitimization and boycott of Israel in universities. The GCI is a World Jewish Congress (WJC) program in cooperation with EUJS and the World Union of Jewish Students (WUJS).

2. JEWISH YOUTH TAKE THE FLOOR


One of the most important pillars of EUJS activity is our continuous attempt to bridge the gap between young leaders and the established leadership of the Jewish communities in Europe. EUJS recognizes the importance in investing in youth in order to secure the future. As we strive to empower our constituencies as leaders we insist on providing them with an opportunity to take the floor and speak up.

2.1 AIPAC ANNUAL POLICY CONFERENCE,


WASHINGTON DC, FEBRUARY 2012

EUJS vice-president Jane Braden-Golay attended the American Israel Public Affairs Committee annual conference, connecting with young American student leaders, meeting with various Jewish organizations and learning more about Israel advocacy in the American context.

2.3 EUROPEAN JEWISH CONGRESS EXECUTIVE MEETING,


PRAGUE, MAY 2012
EUJS was honoured to attend the European Jewish Congress (EJC) Executive Meeting in Prague. Jewish community leaders from all across Europe gathered for one day in the breathtaking capital of the Czech Republic to tackle current issues facing Jewish communities, share obstacles, and strengthen the relations between Jewish communities of Europe. The distinguished EJC delegation met the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, Petr Necas, in the Lichtenstein Palace to discuss new threats facing the Jewish community. EUJS president Andi Gergely represented EUJS by presenting the situation of Jewish youth in Europe and speaking about the challenges and opportunities of Jewish student unions throughout the continent. She emphasized the importance of strengthening Jewish student movements in order to guarantee Jewish continuity in Europe.

2.4 EUJS SIGNS DECLARATION AT THE ECJC MEETING OF PRESIDENTS, BARCELONA, JUNE 2012
As one of the ten pan-European Jewish organizations represented, EUJS vice-president Jane Braden-Golay signed the ECJC Barcelona Declaration, recognizing shared values such as solidarity amongst Jewish organizations and communities, responsibility, democracy, transparency and mutual acceptance; and affirming the importance of an inclusive platform for Jewish organizations in Europe that share the aforementioned values. EUJS took on an active role during the weekend, with Jane Braden-Golay speaking on a panel about women and leadership in Jewish organizations, and Eric Kounio presenting his design of the new ECJC logo.

2.5 ROI SUMMIT, TEL-AVIV, JULY 2012


In July 2012, EUJS was invited to participate in the fourth Annual ROI Summit, which gathered young adults and professionals in an effort to inspire Jewish entrepreneurship. EUJS values its partnership with ROI given that many EUJS leaders can benefit from ROIs support and networking resources for young Jewish professionals.

2.6 HOPE 4 HANUKKAH PROJECT, EUROPE/ISRAEL, DECEMBER 2012


The European Union of Jewish Students (EUJS) alongside the World Union of Jewish Students (WUJS) distributed toys and gifts to disadvantaged and new immigrant children across the south of Israel. The project, called 'Hope for Hanukkah' was the result of cooperation between the two organizations chairpeople: Oliver Worth and Andi Gergely, who wanted to connect Diaspora students to the plight of children during and after Operation Pillars of Defense. Hope 4 Hanukkah has raised over $7000 in foreign donations, with money coming from the Jewish communities of Switzerland, Amsterdam and Rome as well as individual students all across Europe and the United States. Some communities started their own collection points and directly sent gifts from the United Kingdom, Austria and Germany. The money collected was spent according to lists made up from requests from Absorption Centers and day care facilities across the south. Toys were purchased from independent toy stores in the south of Israel who themselves offered significant discounts and free supplies to help with spreading the holiday spirit.

2.6 MONITORING ANTI-SEMITISM HATE CRIMES OSCE,


WARSAW, DECEMBER 2012

EUJS VP Anna Bakula participated in the seminar on anti-Semitic hate crimes in the OSCE region, organized in Warsaw by OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. This workshop gathered Jewish community leaders and innovators from all over Europe. The full-day workshops focused on tolerance and non-discrimination. Participants had the chance to practice different approaches to combat hate crimes, discuss various case studies, and practice their skills.

2.7 W.I.N.G, SLOVENIA, DECEMBER 2012


EUJS Chairperson Andi Gergely attended the Winter International Gathering (WING), a regional winter event organized by the Swiss Union of Jewish Students (SUJS), the Italian Union of Jewish Students (UGEI) and the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). During the week-long event, Andi Gergely led several sessions on European activism and Jewish life on the continent.

2.2 WUJS CONGRESS 2012, DECEMBER 2012


The World Union of Jewish Students (WUJS) held its biennial election for a new Chairperson. The election took place after a week-long Congress that saw over 120 young Jewish leaders from around the world join together in Jerusalem for a mix of lectures, panel discussions and open forums. The result of the election was that neither candidate secured a solid ma jority. The Executive Committees, consisting of the heads of the unions of U.K. and Ireland, South Africa, Australasia, Israel, France and the European Union held an emergency meeting and decided to co-opt Oliver Worth to remain as Chairperson of WUJS until a suitable date can be set for another election.

2.8 14TH PLENARY ASSEMBLY OF THE WORLD JEWISH CONGRESS (WJC), BUDAPEST, MAY 2013
EUJS President and Executive Director Andi Gergely and Nathan Chichportriche attended the fourteenth Plenary Assembly of the World Jewish Congress, accompanied by two EUJS board members: Elie Petit and VIctoria Godik. During the Assembly, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban gave a speech, so EUJS partnered with the World Union of Jewish Students (WUJS) and the French Union of Jewish Students (UEJF) to create a campaign, We Dont Clap for Orban. The aim of this campaign was to show that Orbans invitation to speak at WJC was not endorsed by many members of the audience, and that Jewish students around the world oppose Orbans policies. When Orban spoke, he was met with an audience that was not naive, and wanted to show it. Andi Gergely was elected to the WJC Executive Board to represent young adults, and she is proud to serve as a WJC board member for the next four years.

2.9 ISRAELI PRESIDENTIAL CONFERENCE, JUNE 2013


EUJS Chairperson Andi Gergely spoke at the Israeli Presidential Conference, and represented European Jewish youth on a panel entitled, The Campus as a Crossroads of Life for a Young Jew. She spoke alongside Natan Sharansky and other distinguished Jewish leaders from around the world. She represented Jewish youth by explaining the impressive actions of some of EUJS member unions, as well as discussing EUJS own accomplishments.

2.10 THE JEWISH AGENCY FOR ISRAEL BOARD OF GOVERNORS,


KIEV, JUNE 2013
EUJS Vice President Victoria Godik was honored to have been invited to the The Jewish Agency for Israels Board of Governors in Kiev. She is participated in committees and meetings, spoke with the Jewish Agencys Board of Governors about the challenges and opportunities of Jewish student unions in the former Soviet Union, and about the importance and new forms of cooperation between the JAFI and Jewish student movements

2.11 AMERICAN JEWISH COMMITTEE, WASHINGTON, MAY 2012-2013


In 2012 and 2013, AJC invited a delegation of twelve European Jewish student leaders to their Annual Congress and ACCESS Summit, to engage with their American peers and international Jewish leaders, and to discuss the challenges facing the global Jewish community. It was a successful week of learning, networking, and connecting with our partners in the United States and around the world.

2.12 ANTI-DEFAMATION LEAGUE, NEW-YORK CITY, NOVEMBER 2013


Andi Gergely was invited to speak at the ADLs Annual Meeting and 100th Anniversary in New York on the panel "Challenges of World Jewry". Andi spoke about the power of youth-led organisations, leadership development and the value in making our own mistakes. She brought examples from Europe where and when Jewish students shook the world and were ready to change the status quo.

European Citizenship

UJS actively works towards the promotion of civil responsibility and active citizenship, thereby ensuring that European Jewish students and young adults remain active members of both their societies at large and the European Youth Sector whilst affirming their commitment to Judaism and the state of Israel. As an umbrella organization representing thirty-five national Jewish student unions in Europe and the former Soviet Union and around 200,000 students represented by these

unions, EUJS is conscious of its responsibilities as one of the largest Jewish student organizations in the world. With its offices in Brussels, the home of European policy and law-making that has been strongly influenced by its multi-cultural environment, EUJS seeks to mould a new generation of young people who are proud of being European and ready to be actively involved in their respective societies on both Jewish and non Jewish issues.

3.1 EUJS AT THE EUROPEAN YOUTH FORUM


EUJS is a member of the European Youth Forum (YFJ), the largest political youth platform on the continent made up of more than 90 National Youth Councils and International Non-Governmental Youth Organizations, which are themselves federations of youth organizations. It brings together tens of millions of young people from all over Europe, organized in order to represent their common interests, and is the feeder organization for much of todays European political leadership. As the only Jewish organization presented at this level, EUJS has a special mandate and responsibility to convey a balanced but strong message.

3.2 EUROPEAN YOUTH FORUM COMEM, BRUSSELS, APRIL 2012


As a full member organization of the European Youth Forum, EUJS took part in the Council of the Members (COMEM) of the European Youth Forum. Andi Gergely led a session on the topic of Secularization and Religion, alongside the Ecumenical Youth Council In Europe (EYCE) and the International Young Catholic Students - International Movement of Catholic Students (JECI-MIEC).

3.3 EUJS MEETS NOBEL PEACE PRIZE LAUREATES,


MARIBOR, MAY 2012
EUJS Vice-President Jane Braden-Golay took part in the European Youth Forum delegation to a series of events promoting worldwide dialog and solidarity in Maribor, Slovenia. The current European capital of culture hosted the following Nobel Peace Prize laureates: His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dr. Rigoberta Mench Tum, Prof. Dr. Lucka Ka jfe Bogata jand, and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yunus. Through their inspirational talks the distinguished guests emphasized the importance of global solidarity and the right of every human being to strive for and achieve a happy life. Looking to the youth as the agents of change, His Holiness the Dalai Lama reminded all present that, Change only comes through action.

3.4 EUROPEAN YOUTH FORUM GENERAL ASSEMBLY,


MARIBOR & THESSALONIKI, NOVEMBER 2012 - 2013

Nathan Chicheportiche, EUJS Executive Director, attended the European Youth Forum General Assembly and introduced himself to the representatives of various committees and organizations. He also took part in several Policy Commissions and Thematic Squares.

3.5 LEAGUE OF YOUNG VOTERS, BRUSSELS, JANUARY 2013


EUJS has taken part in the preparation of the League of Young Voters campaign in Brussels. The League of Young Voters aims at enhancing youth participation in the 2014 European Parliament elections. Its goal is to raise awareness among young Europeans, inform them what is at stake for them in the elections and provide non-partisan information about the positioning of the different political parties. In addition, it will aim at informing political parties what young people's concerns are so that they can be included in their election campaigns, as well as influencing EU public policy through advocacy.

3.6 NO HATE SPEECH MOVEMENT TRAINING,


STARSBOURG, OCTOBER 2012
Deborah Abisror, EUJS Executive Director, took part in the elaborate process of Council of Europes campaign against online hate speech. EUJS decided to fully commit to raising awareness of this phenomenon and we will work hard to train our members to fight against online hate speech.

3.7 NO HATE SPEECH MOVEMENT, BUDAPEST, APRIL 2013


EUJS Executive Director Nathan Chicheportiche participated in the training for the No Hate Speech Movement in Budapest. EUJS decided to join the Council of Europe and encourage its member unions to join in this online campaign against hate speech. The No Hate Speech Movement is not intended to limit freedom of expression; it is a campaign for human rights based on promoting freedom of expression. The movement opposes online hate speech in all its forms, including those that most affect young people, such as cyber-bullying and cyber-hate. The No Hate Speech Movement is a campaign by young people, for your people, and is based upon human rights education, youth participation, and media literacy.

3.8 EUJS ANTI-EXTREMISM SEMINAR, AMSTERDAM, JUNE 2013


At the end of June, EUJS organized an in-depth seminar in Amsterdam about the threat of rising extrem-ism in Europe. Participants had the opportunity to meet with many prominent leaders and engage in discussions about various topics. Among other lecturers, Robert Baruch (Lobbyist, former EUJS Board Member) shared his insight about lobbying strategies and ways to wield political influence without hold-ing political office. Benjamin Abtan from EGAM and Guy Muller from CIDI gave an overview of European efforts to combat racism and hate speech online and offline. Ronald Eissens, General Director and co-founder of the International Human Rights and anti-racism NGO Magenta Foundation led discussions and debates about the disastrous anti-racism Durban conference of 2001, strategies and methods to combat online hate speech, and the challenges of human rights advocacy in the modern era., and Alexander Goldberg, trustee of Rene Cassin led an interactive workshop how human rights norms are tested in the face of extremist threats and violence. Furthermore, the question of rising extremism among minority communities were discussed and recommendations were put forward. At the end of the seminar, the participants drafted a manifesto calling on international organizations to come together to combat extremism and cultivate a healthy future for Europes minority communities. The project was co-financed by the the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe, .

3.9 FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AGENCY, VILNIUS, NOVEMBER 2013


Andi Gergely spoke at the Fundamental Right Agencys annual conference held in Vilnius on the panel Giving voice to the victims. Andi spoke about the incident how a group from EUJS suffered anti-Semitic cyberhate attacks in Hungary in the summer of 2012. Andi spoke about their experiences and about the importance of bringing the perpetrators to justice.

a coat of many colours;

Since we live in a Europe that has multiple faces and identities, it is our task to learn how to best reconcile our differences, while celebrating the heritage and rich culture brought by each of these identities. The richness and diversity of our faiths should serve as a starting point for a joint journey towards a better future rather than a cause for division and separation. There are many ways of engaging in inter-religious dialogue; however before engaging with others, one must undergo an introspective process of knowing oneself and understanding ones roots and background.

In a continent with over fifty different countries, each and every young person lives a very different reality. We are a generation of European students that has become highly individualised a generation that is marked by the choices we make, the obstacles we choose to overcome, and the taboos we vow to break. Cognizant of the reach and impact that its activities have, EUJS is committed to contributing to a more united yet diversified Europe with equal rights for members of any faith-based or other community.

4.1 INTERFAITH DIALOGUE SEMINAR, KRAKOW, JUNE 2012


EUJS organised an interfaith seminar between Christian and Jewish youth in the historic city of Krakow. Students from across Europe gathered to discuss a variety of issues and create stronger bonds between communities. Some of the topics touched upon at the seminar included the Jewish past, present and future of Poland, and coexistence and genocide education in public schools. Lecturers included case studies and examples from Rabbi Stanislaw Wojciechovicz and learning the story of Jan Jakub Wechsler (a Catholic priest and his struggle to make Aliyah to Israel, by Katarzyna Reszke). Participants also engaged in discussion about the Jewish and Christian Sabbaths and attended the Jewish cultural festival of Krakow together. The seminar was supported by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe.

4.2 EMERGING LEADERS CONFERENCE,


CONNECTICUT, USA, JUNE 2012
EUJS was invited to the Emerging Leaders Conference organized by the WJC and IJCIC at the Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Centre in Connecticut. The seminar was devoted to the issue of Jewish-Catholic dialogue and the challenges in this world. Fifty leaders of Jewish and Catholic organizations from around the world attended the conference, hailing from the USA, England, Hungary, Italy, Poland and Israel. EUJS representative Anna Bakula had the opportunity to take part in workshops on the teaching of dialogue, different approaches to the problems of developing civilization, Biblical Seminary, and also the history of Jewish-Catholic relations. The organizing committee offered three types of religious service, as well as many meetings and debates.

4.3 DIFFERENT FAITHS - COMMON ACTION: EYIN SUMMIT & DIALOGUE SEMINAR, NORWAY, JUNE 2012
EUJS vice president Jane Braden-Golay joined 35 young leaders from Europe, the Middle East and North Africa for a 4 days dialogue seminar. These leaders represented faith-based organizations, as well as social activists and journalists from Egypt, Lebanon, and Morocco. The main topics of the seminar included dialogue for solving conflicts, the Arab Spring and the economic crisis, and the annual summit of the Religions for Peace. At the end of the summit, Jane Braden-Golay was elected into the European Interfaith Youth Network (EIYN) core group.

4.4 MUSLIM JEWISH CONFERENCE, BRATISLAVA, JULY 2012


Since its establishment in 2010, EUJS has been part of the Muslim Jewish Conference. The 6 days conference is a unique opportunity for Muslim and Jewish youth as well as other young adults to discover each others identity by listening to one another, sharing narratives, and engaging in meaningful discussions. Andi Gergely EUJS President spoke at the Gala event about EUJSs connection to MJC and the importance of interfaith dialogue. EUJS Vice-President Jane Braden Golay was the chair of a working committee, and EUJS VP Victoria Godik participated as a team member.

4.5 GATHERING OF EUROPEAN JEWISH AND MUSLIM LEADERS,


PARIS, SEPTEMBER 2012
Andi Gergely, EUJS President was invited to the Second Gathering of European Jewish and Muslim Leaders, with the Great Mosque of Paris and the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding. At the conference, extremism and attacks against religious expression across the European continent was discussed. EUJS held a presentation about youth interfaith initiatives in Europe and presented its upcoming interfaith seminar in Morocco.

4.6 INTERFAITH SEMINAR, MARRAKESH, OCTOBER 2012


Wisdom is at the root of everything. And these are our common roots. We are all nourished by G-d, nature or whatever you choose to believe in. This is how a young Muslim from Sweden/Egypt answered the question, Why interfaith? at EUJS Jewish-Muslim seminar for activists. A large group of young activists hailing from Russia, Italy, the UK, and many other nations gathered for this personal and intensive seminar in Marrakech, Morocco. Building on a Jewish-Muslim interfaith seminar held last year in Casablanca, EUJS decided to create a space for interfaith activists to share their work, exchange ideas, discuss the challenges, and be inspired by Moroccos rich history of Muslim-Jewish coexistence and friendship. The participants actively involved themselves in the program, volunteering to lead sessions on a specific aspect of their religion, or sharing personal stories of successful interfaith initiatives. Together, the group visited Jewish and Muslim sites in Marrakech and met the president of Marrakechs small Jewish community, Jackie Kadosh. This enriching seminar happened thanks to the great inspiration and support of Moroccos Mimouna Club, the Muslim Jewish Conference, CEJI (Jewish Contribution to an Inclusive Europe) and the European Jewish Fund.

4.7 COUNCIL OF EUROPE EXCHANGE ON THE RELIGIOUS DIMENSION OF INTERCULTURAL DIALOGUE,


TIRANA, SEPTEMBER 2012

Deborah Abisror represented European Jewish youth at the Council of Europes Exchange on the Religious Dimension of Intercultural Dialogue in Tirana, Albania. The meeting was aimed at promoting and strengthening human rights and democracy in Europe in order to foster mutual respect, awareness, tolerance, and understanding in European society. Catholics and Muslims from Europe and Albania also attended the 3 days conference, and even the Prime Minster of Albania served as Chairman of the exchange.

4.8 EUJS PART OF THE EUROPEAN INTERFAITH YOUTH NETWORK OF RELIGIONS FOR PEACE
Jane Braden Golay, EUJS VP,attended the 9th World Assembly of Religions for Peace in Vienna, in November 2013. The RfP - European Inter-Religious Youth Network (EIYN) is a part of the Religions for Peace Global Youth Network and serves as a platform aimed at bringing together youth organizations and young individuals from all religions present in Europe. Established in 2006, EIYN is composed of 20 European youth faith-based organizations (and in some cases: religious communities) and non-religious organizations who facilitate the inter-faith dialogue. It facilitates multi-religious cooperation and helps develop part-nerships for multi-religious projects and pilot programs to confront some of our most urgent challenges in conjunction with other RfP youth networks in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, North America, Latin America and the Caribbean.

4.9 EUROPEAN PRE-WORLD ASSEMBLY MEETING IN


SARAJEVO MAY 2012

EUJS was invited to participate in the European pre-world assembly as a representative of Religions for Peace, European Interfaith Youth Network, Sara jevo, Bosnia-Hercegovina. The meeting was in preparation for the World Assembly in Doha: Welcoming the Other, Action for Human Dignity, Citizenship and Common Good.

5.1 EUJS PART OF SHARED MEMORIES - COLLECTIVE ACTION


Never again was the hope of humankind after the Holocaust. Since then, we have witnessed genocide in Cambodia, Bosnia, Rwanda, and now Darfur. These examples are a stain on the record of humanity, and EUJS is determined that the world remember, acknowledge, and internalize these experiences, so that humanity as a whole will not repeat the same mistakes again and again. Young people need to be educated, both about their own history and about the history of others, in order to find common ground and to search for ways to strive towards a more peaceful and tolerant world. EUJS is determined to expand its outreach in order to keep to its commitment of raising awareness and educating young generations about the universal message of the Shoah and its lessons. With this goal EUJS started a partnership with the Yad Vashem International School for Holocaust Studies. Since 2010 EUJS has been bringing student delegations to Israel. As a result of the program students learn how to teach and speak about the Holocaust and are enabled to carry out programs in their communities. Amongst the many topics on the program are the current Holocaust discourse, exploring Polish Jewish history, Jewish leadership during the Holocaust and Holocaust denial. You will have the opportunity to learn from the leading experts in the field and to discover the different facets of Yad Vashem: The historical museum, the International School for Holocaust Studies and the learning centre.

5.2 YAD VASHEM FOLLOW UP CONFERENCE, WARSAW, APRIL 2012


As a follow up after the Yad Vashem conference, EUJS organized a training session for young Jewish educators about new approaches to Holocaust education in high schools. Thirty people participated in the seminar, including professional educators from Poland, Russia, Israel and the USA. The project was highly beneficial mainly because it provided the chance to practice and develop the skills that we had learned at the Yad Vashem conference in Israel.

5.3 ROMA & SINTI TRIP TO KRAKOW AND AUSCHWITZ,


AUGUST 2013

EUJS Chairperson Andi Gergely was honored to be invited to join 300 Roma and Sinti youth for a trip to Auschwitz to commemorate the 2nd of August Roma Holocaust Commemoration Day. She spoke about educating future generation about Holocaust and genocide education and the importance of youth initiatives. The conference was organised by Ternype .the International Roma Youth Network.

Balance and Dedication


Across Europe, a new generation of young Jewish men and women are coming of age, yet the significant ma jority of them are remote from issues of Jewish political activism. These young adults, some of them still university students and others already young professionals, hold positions that could greatly influence the future course of European politics on both national and pan-continental levels. They embody immense, but untapped potential in the political sphere. We are witnessing an increasing need for greater involvement within civil society and a greater need to not only expresses ones opinion, but also to act upon it in an attempt to alter the political status quo. The political reality in Europe reflects the significant involvement of young people. Nonetheless, the input from the Jewish population has been very modest both in advocating for European Jewish interests and for those related to the State of Israel. The Jewish Communities of the old continent tend to position themselves in a somewhat conservative way by maintaining and preserving a neutral stance. Thus, the communities often fail to empower their membership by not granting them the mandate showing them how to be more politically active and vocal. This turning point in the history of European Jewish life offers a unique opportunity to enable a new generation of leaders to raise political awareness across the continent, revitalize their political activism, and strengthen the bonds across Europes diverse Jewish communities. The uniqueness of EUJS diplomacy and advocacy is the key to its success: a structure that is Euro-centred and infused with the values of Jewish and Israel education; and a network for placing young students and professionals at the centre of European political and public affairs, while providing them with the tools and ability to influence the future course of Europes development.

6.1 EUJS AT THE UNITED NATIONS


Many of the challenges facing the UN, and much of the problematic treatment of Israel, are centred at the United Nations Human Rights Council. EUJS has identified the need to take a pro-active stand and extend its activities as a global voice of Jewish youth. Therefore, EUJS has actively engaged at the Human Rights Council in the United Nations in Geneva for more than 8 years, fighting in the heart of the diplomatic world for the upholding of human rights, the security of Israel, and for action against genocide. In May 2006, EUJS formally obtained the Special Consultative Status ECOSOC of the United Nations, thus becoming the first and sole Jewish youth organization officially accepted in the United Nations. The newly elected leadership of EUJS decided to use EUJS right to speak in front of the United Nation Human Rights Council every time a session was held. As a consequence EUJS representatives spoke 4 times in front of the United Nation Human Rights Council during the last 2 years to defend the Jewish people and Israel.

6.2 EUJS AMBASSADORS AT THE UN HRC, GENEVA, MARCH 2012


EUJS has brought a delegation of 25 outstanding Jewish students to Geneva to raise their voices to the UN HRC, and to make a difference in the quest for Human Rights for all. These students joined EUJS at the Geneva Summit for Human Rights to meet with UN Ambassadors and to demand a fair treatment of the State of Israel and the promotion of human rights worldwide. Before meeting with the ambassadors from the United Kingdom, France, Hungary, and Uganda, the participants were trained by EUJS, the Israeli Ambassador to the UN, and UN Watch staff. The delegation set out to deliberately yet diplomatically confront the Ambassadors about their anti-Israel position in the United Nations, and argued that by attacking Israel, they were attacking the only democracy in the Middle East. The delegation also demanded human rights in these respective countries, and in particular for gay rights in Uganda, where the sexual orientation is considered as a crime. In addition, EUJS organized a panel discussion within the Palais des Nations, inviting two young bloggers and activists: Maikel Nabil from Egypt and Kacem El Ghazzali from Morocco. They spoke out against the oppressive dictatorships, human rights abuses, and lack of freedom of speech in the Middle East in countries like Syria and Egypt, and proclaimed their support for Israeli democracy.

6.3 SEMINAR WITH THE UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL, GENEVA, MARCH 2013
EUJS brought thirty students from twenty different countries together in Geneva, Switzerland, for our 8th annual seminar with the United Nations Human Rights Council. The participants learned about the international communitys attitude towards Israel and global human rights issues, and met with ambas-

sadors and representatives from the Mission of Israel, Germany, France, and the United States. The students met with representatives from various countries and organizations, including Hillel Neuer of UN Watch, Lord Trimble, Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Eviatar Manor, the Chairman of the Association for the Promotion of International Humanitarian Law (Ido Rosenzwieg), and many other inspiring leaders. The EUJS delegation urged the UN Human Rights Council to treat Israel fairly and to promote human rights worldwide.

EUJS ACTIONS
PROTEST AGAINST LASZLO CSATARY, BUDAPEST, JULY 2012
On July 16, 2012, the European Union of Jewish Students organized a demonstration in front of the house of Laszlo Csatary, a Hungarian war criminal who helped deport 15,700 Jews to Auschwitz and was recently found living in Budapest. In less than 24 hours, EUJS called on multiple organizations, including Hungarian Christian organizations, to show their support by hand-cuffing themselves together in front of Csatarys apartment to demand his arrest. Over fifty protesters demonstrated alongside EUJS, wearing anti-Nazi stickers and holding signs that read, We never forget. This mobilisation had international media coverage and over 400 articles were written in newspapers such as The Sun, Al Jazeera, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Jakarta Globe, Telegraph, Times of India, Times of Israel, CNN, BBC, New York Daily News, and many others. In reaction to this mobilisation, an influential Hungarian neo-Nazi website (kuruc.info) featured the participants of the demonstration and offered financial rewards for any information they could receive on the EUJS organizers. As a direct result of this action, the Hungarian authorities decided to place Csatary under house arrest, and in June 2013 the Hungarian prosecutor charged Laszlo Csatary with Nazi war crimes.

Organizational Development

1. WELCOMING A NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NOVEMBER 2012


After 3 years of devoted work at the European Union of Jewish Students, Deborah Abisror completed her term with EUJS. The EUJS team warmly welcomed her successor, Mr Nathan Chicheportiche, from Switzerland who joined us as our new Executive Director.

2. EUJS STATUTORY MEETING


The EUJS Presidium is the elected consultative body that assists the Chairperson in implementing EUJS policies and decisions. It consists of seven Presidium members and a Treasurer. In addition to official board meetings, EUJSs elected leadership has maintained contact via phone conferences and email. The Presidium is regularly updated by the Chairperson on all EUJS activities, developments, and endeavours. The members of the EUJS Presidium serve as ambassadors in their respective countries and as part of the organizing team at all EUJS events, and they promote EUJS activities at different conferences and gatherings throughout the world.

3. FELLOWSHIPS AT EUJS
EUJS has been a home to many fellows and interns over the past several years. This has both served EUJS professional and organizational development while allowing these individuals to have a unique view into how a pan European Jewish organizations operates, how international programs are run, and what Jewish youth leadership means today. EUJS has hosted five fellows over the past three years in its office. As we continuously strive to empower young Jewish leaders in diverse ways, EUJS has been developing its partnership with the American Jewish Committee, serving as a host organization for their fellows. We are aware of the significance an experience of working at the EUJS offices in Brussels can have on these young individuals changing their lives and reshaping their traditional views of what makes Jewish leadership.

4. INSTITUTIONAL PARTNERS
Jewish youth and students across Europe form an integral part of the worldwide Jewish community, and have strong ties to the Jewish communities in the United States and Israel. They also live as full and equal citizens in their respective countries, in a united Europe that is increasingly a multi-cultural, reflecting the values of a pluralist and peace-seeking mindset. The objective of EUJSto cater to the needs of young peoplecan only be accomplished with the active support and engagement of our partners in both the Jewish world and in the institutions of a united Europe. EUJS strongly treasures these partnerships based on our shared belief in the power of youth as a vehicle for positive social change.

THE AMERICAN JEWISH COMMITTEE (AJC)


The American Jewish Committee, under the visionary leadership of David Harris, has long been a prime partner of, a believer in, and a sponsor of EUJS. The special relationship of EUJS and AJC was cemented in a formal partnership agreement signed in Washington DC in March 2005. The AJC helps to bridge the trans-Atlantic divide by sponsoring a fellowship program that, every summer, gives an American college student the unique opportunity to spend nine weeks working at the EUJS office in Brussels preparing for Summer U. Furthermore, for several years AJC has sponsored a EUJS delegation, compromised of leading student activists from across Europe, at its annual conference in Washington DC. The continuous financial, logistical, and moral support of the AJC is crucial in enabling EUJS to fulfil its mandate in securing the Jewish future in Europe.

THE AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE (JDC)


The European Union of Jewish Students is a long-time partner of the JDC. Throughout the years, the two organizations have worked together to further our shared vision and desire for a vibrant Jewish life across Europe.

THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE (COE)


The European Union of Jewish Students is an accredited NGO of the Council of Europes European Youth Foundation. In collaboration with this organization, EUJS has held yearly seminars and study sessions over the past twenty years. Such programs emphasise the promotion of youth policies, minority rights, inter-cultural dialogue, and human rights education.in their respective countries, in a united Europe that is increasingly a multi-cultural, reflecting the values of a pluralist and peace-seeking mindset. The objective of EUJSto cater to the needs of young peoplecan only be accomplished with the active support and engagement of our partners in both the Jewish world and in the institutions of a united Europe. EUJS strongly treasures these partnerships based on our shared belief in the power of youth as a vehicle for positive social change.

THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION


The European Union of Jewish Students is an accredited organization with the Directorate-General for Education and Culture, and is a recipient of a yearly grant for administrative support offered to the most active European youth organizations.

THE EUROPEAN COUNCIL OF JEWISH COMMUNITIES (ECJC)


The European Union of Jewish Students works with the ECJC to ensure that is a member of the board of directors of the European Council of Jewish Communities, and serves as the sole voice of Jewish youth for issues of Jewish concern throughout Europe.

THE WORD JEWISH CONGRESS (WJC)


EUJS President Andi Gergely was elected to the Executive Board of the World Jewish Congress representing Young Adults. In 2013 EUJS started a global partnership with the World Jewish Congress to combat attacks against Israel in University environments.

THE EUROPEAN JEWISH CONGRESS (EJC)


The European Union of Jewish Students works with the EJC to ensure that the voice of Jewish youth in Europe is prominently heard at all levels. EJC leaders have been guests at EUJS events on numerous occasions. Given our similar democratic and representative structures in Europe, EUJS will continue working closely with the EJC leadership to ensure Jewish continuity and prosperity in the continent. It is through the European Jewish Congress that EUJS also receives support from the World Jewish Congress (WJC).

THE WORLD UNION OF JEWISH STUDENTS (WUJS)


The World Union of Jewish Students is the worldwide umbrella for all Jewish student organizations. EUJS is a constitutional member of the WUJS network, and is a direct partner in their worldwide activities through its representation of the national European Jewish Students on the WUJS Executive.

The European Youth Forum is the largest European youth organization, working directly with the institutions of the European Union and promoting youth empowerment among its twenty million members. As an International Youth NGO (IYNGO), EUJS is a member of the European Youth Forum and actively represents the interests of its Jewish members, as well as the interests of minority groups across Europe.

THE EUROPEAN YOUTH FORUM (YFJ)

YAD VASHEM
Established in 1993 in Jerusalem, the International School for Holocaust Studies conducts educational programs and produces educational materials for a variety of target populations and educational organizations in Israel and abroad. Over 100 staff members work together with thousands of teachers, students, soldiers and pupils each year to promote Holocaust education and remembrance. Since 2010, EUJS has been bringing delegations of students from across Europe to Yad Vashem to learn about the Holocaust and how to educate and teach their peers about the importance of preserving the memory of the Shoah.

5. EUJS FINANCIAL ANALYSIS


In 2012-2013 EUJS succeeded to implement all the activities that were planned throughout the year. Many efforts were put into strengthen the relationship with our donors, especially institutional partners which supported EUJS' structural funding and programming. In this light, both the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe and the Youth in Action Program of the European Commission have strongly supported EUJS, with 23.5% of the total of incomes for 2012. However, despite strong efforts in diversifying the sources of incomes, 42% of the total annual budget comes from participation fees, which indicates that Jewish Students have been mainly self-financing themselves.

European Union of Jewish Students

European Union of Jewish Students

3 Avenue Antoine Depage 1000 Brussels Belgium +32 2 647 72 79 info@eujs.org www.eujs.org

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