BRUSSELS—‘’Europe must remain a place where Jewish life can flourish and Jews can freely practice their faith without fear or restrictions,’’ writes European Commission First Vice-President Frans Timmermans in a message to the Jewish communities on the occasion of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year 5779.
‘’Against resurging threats, the rebirth of Jewish life in many parts of Europe is a precious gift. It filled me with pride to take part in the inauguration of the new rabbi in my own home region last year and to see the continuation of thousands of years of Jewish communities in Europe,’’ he says. ‘’Every new synagogue, community centre and school is a step to strengthen Jewish life, but also a step to strengthen Europe and to strengthen our societies.’’
‘’We have the obligation to protect and strengthen the richness of Jewish culture and diversity and its contribution to our Europe.’’
Timmermans also recalls that the past year ‘’witnessed demonstrations of Jewish communities in several countries standing up against antisemitism and claiming their rights as citizens.’’
He mentions the horrific murder in Paris of Mireille Knoll ‘’who survived the roundup at Vel d’Hiv in 1942, but not antisemitism in Europe in 2018.’’
‘’The European Commission was very clear that there can be no justification and we stand in full solidarity with the European Jewish communities in condemning these vile attacks in the strongest possible way.’’ He added : ‘’Jews should never have to wonder whether it is safe to display their identity in their own neighbourhood, city or country.’’
‘’It doesn’t matter where the hatred comes from, whether it is right-wing, left-wing, Islamist extremists or whether it comes masked as anti-Zionism, we all have the obligation to stand up and speak out,’’ he stressed.
‘’The European Commission’s relationship with Jewish communities, organisations and representatives has never been closer. This alliance makes us stronger in the battle against hatred, extremism and antisemitism,’’ he added, assuring European Jewry that ‘’we will ensure that Jewish voices continue to be heard in Europe.’’
Timmermans also recalls the celebration this year of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel which ‘’ materialised the Jewish people’s dream of a Jewish homeland.’’