Statement by the EAJC Regarding the Investigation into Moalim in Belgium

The Euro-Asian Jewish Congress expresses deep concern regarding the investigation against three mohels in Belgium who performed the Britney Milah ritual — one of the fundamental religious laws of Judaism.

Britney Milah has been an indispensable part of Jewish religious and national identity for millennia. Attempts to question the right of Jewish people to freely practice this rite cause grave concern throughout the Jewish world and are perceived as a dangerous precedent restricting freedom of religion in Europe.

The President of the Euro-Asian Jewish Congress, Mikhail Mirilashvili, stated: "Europe is on the verge of a critical test. The prohibition of one of the most significant rituals of Judaism is undoubtedly among the most ancient signs of antisemitism. We know bans on circumcision from history."
We share the position of the Chief Rabbi of Israel, Kalman Bar, who called the current events a serious violation of religious freedom and a warning sign for all of Europe.

The history of the 20th century convincingly demonstrates that pressure on Jewish religious and cultural life has never been limited to isolated legal or administrative measures. Restrictions on Jewish traditions have repeatedly become part of broader processes of discrimination and social alienation.

Of particular concern is the fact that the investigation against the mohels occurs against the backdrop of previously imposed restrictions on ritual slaughter (Shechita) in Belgium. Such steps create a sense of a systematic contraction of religious freedom for the Jewish communities in Europe.

The Euro-Asian Jewish Congress urges the Belgian authorities to demonstrate utmost responsibility, respect for religious rights, and adherence to European principles of freedom of conscience and cultural diversity.

We are convinced that protecting the right of religious communities to observe their centuries-old traditions is a vital measure of a mature democratic society and a genuine commitment to human rights.