World Jewish Congress President Urges Investment in Jewish Education Over Antisemitism Efforts

World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder told Jewish leaders gathered in Geneva that the Jewish world should stop spending large sums trying to persuade antisemites and instead invest in Jewish education. Lauder said Jewish communities worldwide were facing a surge of antisemitism from Australia and Canada to the UK, France, and the US.

He added that it had become dangerous to be visibly Jewish in those countries. The comments were delivered at a meeting of Jewish leaders in Geneva in May 2026. A photograph from the event shows Lauder addressing the group.

Lauder has long been involved in international Jewish organizations. His remarks reflect ongoing concerns about rising antisemitic incidents reported in several nations since 2023.

Its activities include advocacy, diplomacy, and support for Jewish education programs. No specific funding figures or new policy announcements were detailed in the address. The focus remained on shifting priorities toward educating Jewish children rather than outreach to those holding antisemitic views.