Budapest, Hungary – The World Jewish Congress (WJC) celebrated the fifth night of Chanukah in Budapest, Hungary, an event that coincided with the WJC Jewish Diplomatic Corps’ European Regional meeting.
Distinguished speakers at the festivities included H.E. Mr. János Bóka, Hungarian Minister for European Union Affairs, who delivered a keynote address outlining Hungary’s commitment to combating antisemitism during its upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, during the second half of 2024.
Minister Bóka emphasized the importance of supporting European Jewish life and safeguarding the continent's Jewish heritage, stating:
“Fighting anti-Semitism will be one of the priorities of the Hungarian EU presidency. We can fight antisemitism effectively by supporting and raising awareness of Jewish life in Europe and by protecting Europe's Jewish heritage.
“In Hungary, Jewish life and culture have deep roots, are diverse, develop organically and are an integral part of our Hungarian identity. We want to set an example for Europe.”
The event also featured remarks by Dr. Andor Grósz, MAZSIHISZ President and WJC Vice-President; H.E. Mr. Yacov Hadas-Handelsman, Ambassador of the State of Israel to Hungary; Ms. Hadassa Getsztain, WJC-Israel Chairperson; and Mr. Daniel Radomski, Head of WJC Strategy & Programs and Executive Director of the WJC Jewish Diplomatic Corps.
The event highlighted the unwavering support of the global Jewish community toward Israel during its ongoing war.
The WJC Jewish Diplomatic Corps is the organization’s highly selective flagship leadership development and diplomatic impact program, with over 300 hand-picked professionals in 55 countries.