"The Jewish students have to choose between their identity and their security."
Yana Naftalieva, president of the World Federation of Jewish Students, tells in an interview with "Maariv" about the challenges facing the organization since October 7 due to antisemitism rising on campuses.
Amidst the storms, demonstrations, and harassment faced by Jewish and Israeli students at universities abroad following the "Iron Swords" war and the rise in global anti-Semitism, it has been a very intense few months for Yana Naftalieva, the president of the World Union of Jewish Students (WUJS). "Since October 7, we have devoted ourselves to helping Israel in any way we can," she says in a special interview with "Maariv." Planes filled with 20 tons of medical equipment have been sent from France to Israel, and members of our Board from all continents have campaigned for the return of the hostages, explaining to the world that Israel's main interest is their return home and ensuring the safety of the country's residents. At the same time, since October 7, Jewish students on campuses around the world have not felt safer; they feel attacked. Our main goal is to ensure their safety and take care of their security.
Q: How is the organisation fighting the growing antisemitism towards the Jewish students and how is antisemitism different in recent months from antisemitism in previous years?
A: The common denominator for the anti-Semitism seen on campuses in recent months is 'anti-Zionism.' Most students claim they don't hate Jews, only Zionists, not realizing that anti-Zionism is a form of antisemitism. We collaborate with the International Association of Jewish Lawyers, the IJL, and B'nai B'rith International to provide legal assistance to Jewish students who experience or witness antisemitism on campuses. We receive many complaints worldwide. While we can't address every case legally, we strive to help in as many cases as possible and are awaiting results.
“The Mark of Cain”
The outbreak of war and recent events on campuses worldwide have underscored the organization's importance. "The reality for Jewish students abroad has changed significantly since October 7th. Previously, campuses were places where students of any origin could learn and develop. Now, they are very dangerous," emphasizes Naftalieva. "Earlier this month in Berlin, a German student was hospitalized after being beaten by a classmate for expressing support for Israel. Jewish students in the diaspora face physical danger. This antisemitism is evident on campuses across all continents, be it America, Asia, Africa, Europe, or Australia. Protesters believe Jewish students have no right to exist on campus and no safe space to walk around. We must fight to show that we have the same rights as any other student. Today, it is not safe to be a Jewish student on any campus worldwide. Jewish students must choose between their identity and their security."
Q: How do you perceive what is happening now at Columbia and UCLA universities?
A: Two days after the riots began, we sent an open letter to the management of Columbia University on behalf of the organization. The letter, signed by 31 different countries, urged the university administration to act immediately to stop the riots. We emphasized that if the pro-Palestinian demonstrators are not shown that there are consequences for violence, demonstrations, antisemitism, and riots. It will set a dangerous precedent not only for Columbia University but also for campuses worldwide. When management fails to act, antisemitism flourishes. We received no response or action from Columbia's management, which sends a message that such behavior towards Jewish students is permissible. It is crucial to note that Columbia University and other U.S. universities do not have regulations explicitly prohibiting antisemitism. This must change so that anyone considering antisemitic actions knows they are breaking the law and will be punished."
Q: "Where does the Israeli government enter the equation? How can the state help?
A: I think Israel needs to understand that this is an international problem, and it must work with universities worldwide to ensure that antisemitism towards Jewish students is addressed appropriately. The government needs to apply enough pressure to ensure the safety of Jewish students on campuses. Essentially, that is our job. The government can convey these messages through us.
Q: "It seems that lately the line between a Jew and an Israeli is blurring when it comes to antisemitism. This is beyond hatred of Israel; it is hatred towards all Jews. Has this been happening mostly since October 7th?
A: "I think that antisemitism has never separated Jews and Israelis, but it is more noticeable after October 7th.”
Q: "In the long term, what do you think should be done to reduce the cases of anti-Semitism on campuses abroad?”
A: "As I mentioned, university administrations abroad should take firm action against anti-Semitism and embed these measures in their regulations. If they do not ensure the safety and well-being of Jewish students, the message they send is effectively to exclude Jewish students from university premises. History has shown us the dangers of such exclusionary messages, notably during the Holocaust. We must ensure that such messages are never heard again within the walls of universities, or anywhere else."
Q: Finally, do you have a message you would like to convey?
A: "I want to convey a message to every Jewish student in the world: no matter how difficult things are right now, please know that you are not alone. Jewish students worldwide remain united. Our only way to overcome these challenging times is by remaining vocal, strong, and proud of our Jewish identity. We deserve to be on these campuses just like any other student. It's time to stand up for ourselves and fight for our right to move freely and equally on campus, just like everyone else."
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