Commonwealth Jewish Council

Protecting Jewish Life. Building Bridges. Amplifying Voices
The Commonwealth Jewish Council unites communities across the globe.

News

The CJC is really excited that the first batch of materials has arrived and been distributed to several Nigerian communities!

Our representative in Nigeria, Arthur-Regis Odidika, commented, "They (the books) are most helpful. Thanks a million".

The materials for Tanzania and Uganda are scheduled to arrive mid-September.

Our huge thanks to all the UK Jewish communities who donated items to our campaign, and also to those who have helped fund the transportation.

To read more about these communities, please go to the Communities section on the website.

It is not too late to donate if you would still like to:

Diplomacy

This week, we were honoured to meet His Excellency Paul Gomez of the Bahamas. We were warmly welcomed, reflected on the rich Jewish history in the Caribbean, and discussed the urgent environmental challenges facing the Bahamas. We look forward to deepening this partnership and our work together.

Today we were honoured to meet with H.E. Johnston Busingye, High Commissioner of Rwanda. We explored the shared experiences and strong bonds between Jewish and Rwandan communities, united by a commitment to education, reconciliation, and combating extremism. We look forward to continuing our work together.

Honoured to meet with Ghana’s Acting Head of Mission and senior officials from the Ghana High Commission.

We discussed the growing Jewish community in Ghana, shared priorities around faith, human rights & interfaith harmony. Ghana’s commitment to being a safe home for all communities was inspiring.

CJC also raised the need for greater engagement with faith in the Commonwealth. We discussed Ghana's commitment to ending sports slavery and the importance of collaboration on global challenges, such as environmental pressures.

We thank Ghana for its warmth, openness and shared vision.

On Thursday 17th July we had a very productive meeting with the South African High Commissioner, HE Ambassador Mamabolo.

We expressed our concern over rising antisemitism and the growing discomfort within the SA Jewish community, particularly in light of the anti-Israel rhetoric from government officials.

We urged the government to ensure Jews feel safe, respected & fully part of South African society, regardless of geopolitical positions.

On 15th July, we had the privilege of meeting with the new Commonwealth Secretary, General Shirley Botchwey.

As the only active faith-based organisation accredited to the Commonwealth Secretariat, we brought forward Jewish perspectives and championed the vital role religion and faith play in civil society.

In times of polarisation, faith communities must not be sidelined — they are essential partners in peace building, shaping values that transcend politics and borders.

We are proud to stand at the intersection of diplomacy and faith, contributing to a Commonwealth that reflects the dignity and diversity of all its people.

The CJC was honoured to attend a remarkable performance by the Antigua and Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra(ABYSO), hosted by Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill OBE, High Commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda. A celebration of talent, culture and youth excellence.

We were honoured to meet Brunei's Deputy High Commissioner. From interfaith dialogue to environmental resilience: a meaningful conversation about shared values, challenges, and the power of religious communities in the Commonwealth. As the only faith-based voice in the Commonwealth, the CJC is proud to continue building bridges.

We had a great meeting with Stephen Twigg, the Secretary General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Watch this space as exciting plans are afoot! The CJC is committed to continuing to raise the banner for religion within the Commonwealth spheres.

In the News....

The J7: 2025 Report on Antisemitism

To read the report in full, click on the link: https://www.adl.org/sites/default/files/pdfs/2025-05/j7-annual-report-on-antisemitism-2025.pdf

The J7, the Large Communities' Task Force Against Antisemitism, was formed in response to increasing rates of antisemitism around the world. It is comprised of organisations representing the largest Jewish communities in the Diaspora, including Argentina, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and the USA.

The J7 works to identify and address common challenges, develop coordinated strategies and share best practices in combatting global antisemitism.

https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/comment-two-memorable-lessons-from-the-diplomatic-frontlines-of-faith/

Two Lessons from the Diplomatic Frontlines of Faith, by Daniella Myers, Director of International Campaigns; a reflection on two memorable lessons drawn from navigating diplomacy where faith, politics and people intersect.

https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/opinion-how-did-south-africa-fall-so-far/

Excellent article by Clive Lawton OBE, CEO in the Jewish News this week, about the relationship between South Africa and Hamas/Iran/Russia.

Focus of Activities

The Commonwealth Jewish Council supports and protects Jewish communities within the Commonwealth and advances Commonwealth interests with campaigns, projects and shared Jewish values.