In a momentous stride forward, the European Days of Jewish Culture 2023 has been granted the prestigious UNESCO patronage for its upcoming festival. This remarkable acknowledgment not only underscores the significance of preserving cultural diversity and historical memory but also pays tribute to the dedicated EDJC organizers and coordinators who have tirelessly nurtured the festival’s growth.
The UNESCO patronage holds profound implications, signifying the profound resonance between the festival’s objectives and UNESCO’s mission to safeguard cultural heritage and foster cross-cultural dialogue. This milestone achievement can be traced back to the EDJC Organizers & Coordinators Meeting, a pivotal event held earlier this year in Paris. During this gathering, participants were privileged to visit UNESCO’s headquarters, engaging in purposeful sessions designed to deepen their understanding of the organization’s endeavors and their connection to the European Days of Jewish Culture.
UNESCO’s steadfast commitment to Jewish heritage and culture finds resonance in its multifaceted missions and recent accomplishments. The organization’s publication “Holocaust Education in a Global Context,” edited by Karel Fracapane and Matthias Haß in collaboration with the Topography of Terror Foundation, Berlin, stands as an illuminating resource. It comprehensively explores the significance of Holocaust education in a global perspective, an essential read for those delving into the EDJC 2023’s themes.
Additionally, UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” initiative underscores their dedication to preserving documentary heritage for the benefit of all humanity. The initiative aims to facilitate the preservation of the world’s documentary heritage, ensuring universal access and raising public awareness about its invaluable significance. This resonates profoundly with the spirit of the European Days of Jewish Culture, as it seeks to honor and commemorate the rich history and memory of Jewish culture.
Quoting Firmin Edouard MATOKO, Assistant Director-General for Africa and External Relations:
“By highlighting the richness of Jewish heritage and culture since its creation in 1999, and recalling their importance in European history and culture, this initiative pursues objectives that are also those of UNESCO. This year, the focus on memory will encourage participants to reflect on the history of Jews and European Judaism, including the Shoah, and on their place and contribution in Europe today and tomorrow.”
For coordinators and organizers seeking to incorporate the distinguished UNESCO logo into their EDJC 2023 activities, comprehensive information and procedural guidelines can be found here.
The grant of UNESCO patronage to the EDJC 2023 is not only a testament to the festival’s enduring relevance but also a tribute to the dedication and passion of the individuals who have nurtured its growth. The alignment of UNESCO’s core values with the festival’s mission serves as a poignant reminder of the collective effort to celebrate the richness of Jewish heritage and culture. As the festival gathers participants from over 30 countries, this honor underscores the paramount importance of memory, reflection, and dialogue in shaping our shared future.