This week we at the EJA were immensely proud to welcome the President of Montenegro, Mr Milo Dukanovic to our HQ here in Brussels.
 
Rabbi Menachem Margolin, our chairman presented the President with the European King David Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution in supporting and protecting Jews in Montenegro.
 
The President met with Senior representatives of European Jewry, including the chief Rabbi of the Netherlands, the president of the Belgian League against antisemitism, and the Secretary General of B’nei Brith Europe, amongst others, who reported on the rising levels of antisemitism and hate crimes in their countries.
 
In stark contrast, the President of the Montenegrin Jewish Community Mr Dorde Raicewic and Rabbi Ari Edelkopf, the Rabbi of Montenegro spoke about how Jews are welcomed, how there is no security needed at Jewish buildings and that it is safe to walk the streets.
 
Rabbi Margolin said as part of his speech:
 
“Montenegro may be a relatively small country, but even a small light can burn darkness away.
 
“The deep darkness of antisemitism is spreading across Europe. France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium and many others, the oldest hatred is finding its voice again in dark corners and spreading like a malignant virus.
 
“Time and time again we hear European leaders saying enough is enough, but little changes and the darkness keeps spreading.
 
“These countries must embrace and enshrine not only the Montenegrin Model of co-existence, but welcome the country into the European Union where it can provide a leading and immensely valuable role in fighting the scourge of antisemitism. It is deeply ironic that Montenegro must knock on the door to get inside when the country itself is miles ahead of the vast majority of EU countries in protecting freedom of religion and supporting minorities.
 
“We earnestly thank the President for all his hard work, in helping create and supporting the first synagogue in the country, in the example he sets for others to follow and for his humbling and deep convictions and care when it comes to protecting and nurturing this small but flourishing Jewish community.
 
My message to all EU Leaders is this: take note, act and share the light of Montenegro now before the darkness consumes us all.”
 
We invite you to look at our pictures from our event, and to share with your friends and colleagues that Montenegro, is like a David standing up to the Goliath of antisemitism.
 
Thanks as always for your support. Until next time.