The head of the EU’s leading Jewish organization, the European Jewish Association (EJA) today urged all European Political parties to follow the German CDU’s example and officially oppose the BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) movement as anti-Semitic.

Last week, Germany’s Christian Democratic Union party passed an official resolution opposing the BDS (Boycott, Divest & Sanctions) Movement saying its actions are inherently anti-Semitic in nature. The CDU likened the movement activists’ actions to those implemented by the National Socialists back in the 1930s.

Rabbi Menachem Margolin, whose EJA represents thousands of Jews across Europe, said the move was one that every other European Party should follow and he would urge them all in writing, to do so. In a statement from EJA headquarters in Brussels, Rabbi Margolin said:

“The EJA applauds the official position taken by the German CDU and calls upon every European political party to do the same. We will be formally writing to every political party chairperson in the EU to issue a similar resolution. Mrs. Merkel and her fellow party members have really hit the nail on the head. BDS, at its core is anti-Semitic. It seeks to foster division and hatred.

“Israel is the only liberal democracy in the region of Middle East where people are free to fully exercise their civil rights and pursue their aspirations without hindrance. Furthermore, politically, culturally, economically and otherwise Israel is largely an integral part of Europe.

“Europe and Israel have tremendous potential for cooperation in virtually every area – from agriculture, environment and culture to economy, technology and diplomacy. We urge European politicians to stand against discrimination, lies and deceit, and embrace fruitful partnership and productive cooperation.

“An important step on this road to greater co-operation is to follow the CDU example, and refute the hate-filled anti-Semites of the BDS movement” Ends

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)