25 Years AJC Berlin: A Shared Compass

American Jewish Committee is a builder of bridges and a protector of the well-being and safety of Jews around the world.

When the radical right-wing group, "Hammerskins", was banned in Germany a few weeks ago, it was American Jewish Committee (AJC) Berlin that welcomed this ban with great clarity - in the interest of protecting Jewish life.

For the same reason, AJC Berlin also stands firmly with the Jewish community in Germany in naming the supporters of Hamas terror on German streets and calling for strong measures to be taken by the state under the rule of law.

Regarding the "Hammerskins” ban, AJC Berlin quickly recognized the significance of this move by the Federal Ministry of the Interior. "Hammerskins Nation", of which the so-called chapter in Germany was a part, is based in the USA and is considered one of the most dangerous and violent neo-Nazi groups there.

Founding a permanent office in Berlin

Founded in New York in 1906, AJC pursues the mission of serving to protect the welfare and security of Jews around the world. And AJC is aware that that goal can only be accomplished with a commitment that is as limitless as the threat to Jewish life itself. The establishment of a permanent office in Berlin 25 years ago was thus a logical step and has proven its value.

Mutual understanding across the Atlantic, and an at times reciprocal relationship between the two societies make a bridge builder like AJC Berlin a valuable partner in the pursuit of a free and open society based on mutual respect. We share a common compass.

We know who opposes this idea. Nationalist, neo-Nazi and other extremist groups fight from within our society against our convictions, which are, however, also under assault from outside.

Thanks to its global positioning, AJC Berlin has a clear view of the Mullah regime in Iran, its crimes against its own people, its desire to annihilate Israel, most recently seen in its support of the barbaric Hamas terror, and the long arm of the terrorist Revolutionary Guards. I thank AJC Berlin for communicating this message clearly and repeatedly, also towards German policymakers.

Dr. Josef Schuster is the president of the Central Council of Jews in Germany. This article was first published by the Jüdische Allgemeine Zeitung on October 20, 2023.