Summit press release

More than 250 Jewish leaders from over 30 European countries and across the global Jewish world gathered in Athens for the 6th Summit of European Jewish Leaders, organized by the European Council of Jewish Communities (ECJC) in partnership with JDC. The three-day summit served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and strategic thinking at a time of significant challenges for Jewish communities.

Under the theme of resilience, leadership, and community sustainability, participants explored key issues including the future of Jewish life in Europe, post–October 7 realities, demographic changes, antisemitism, and adaptive leadership. The programme featured internationally renowned speakers, interactive workshops, and practical sessions led by ECJC member and associate organizations.

Alongside meaningful discussions, the summit fostered new partnerships and strengthened connections across communities. Highlights included a moving testimony from Iris Haim and her son Tuval, a private evening at the Acropolis Museum hosted by the Jewish Community of Athens, and the presentation of the ECJC Tikkun Olam Europe Award to Alberto Senderei.

The summit also marked an important milestone for ECJC with the election of a new Executive Board, led by President Marc Sugarman (United Kingdom), reaffirming the organization’s commitment to supporting and connecting Jewish communities across Europe.

As participants departed Athens, one message resonated throughout the gathering: the future of Jewish life in Europe will be built through cooperation, shared responsibility, and strong communal leadership.