Athens, Leadership and the Future: The Sixth Summit of European Jewish Leaders

The 6th Summit of European Jewish Leaders, promoted by the European Council of Jewish Communities (ECJC), concluded in Athens. This event brought together over 250 leaders from more than 30 countries. Three intense days, characterized by in-depth analysis, a sense of urgency, and a strong awareness of the shared responsibility facing Jewish communities in Europe today.
The summit took place, as is now customary, with heavy security both inside and outside. However, everyone was asked to keep the location confidential and not post photos until after the event.
The meeting addressed the current challenges that communities are called to reflect on and work on: community resilience after October 7, demographic changes, growing social polarization, and the resurgence of anti-Semitism. At the heart of the discussions was the need for leadership capable of adapting to complex and ever-changing contexts, and a constant call for partnership and the exchange of best practices.
The firsthand accounts from communities most affected by anti-Semitic acts, such as the Manchester Jewish Community, the Jewish School of Amsterdam, and the Vienna Jewish Community, were particularly interesting.
Alongside the contributions of high-profile speakers and international experts, one of the most significant elements of the Summit was the direct contributions of participants. Shared experiences, moments of discussion, and personal testimonies revealed a profoundly human dimension of leadership, encompassing not only strategy, but also responsibility, courage, and vision.
The informal exchanges and connections forged during the event were also particularly significant: new partnerships, strengthened relationships, and transnational collaborations represent one of the most concrete outcomes of the meeting. It is precisely in this vibrant and active network that the strength of the ECJC lies.
The Summit materials—including press releases, presentations, and session resources—are now available to support the work of communities and translate the emerging reflections into concrete actions in the local communities. Likewise, the photographic documentation and official video capture the most significant moments of the days, including the institutional meetings and the evening program at the Acropolis Museum.
Looking to the future, the message is clear: the work begun in Athens does not end with the Summit, but represents a starting point. The ECJC invites all communities to stay connected to develop new collaborations, promote exchanges of best practices, and activate shared learning paths. New initiatives, visits, and cooperation platforms are already planned, with the aim of further strengthening the European network.
The Athens Summit leaves behind not only content and reflections, but above all a renewed collective energy. In a time of uncertainty, the ability to network, share visions, and build together represents the most precious resource for the future of Jewish communities in Europe.

by Sara Levi Sacerdotti