World Jewish Congress is an international association of Jewish communities and organizations. These groups work together to promote unity among Jews and to maintain Jewish cultural, religious, and social customs. The congress stresses the importance of Israel as the center of Jewish heritage. It issues publications on various economic, political, and social matters.
The association tries to protect the rights of Jews throughout the world. For example, it attempted to rescue Jews from Nazi persecution before and during World War II (1939-1945). The congress later set up relief and rehabilitation programs for the victims. During the 1970’s, the congress helped arrange the release of thousands of Jews from the Soviet Union.
The World Jewish Congress was founded in 1936. The organization has its headquarters in New York City.
