ASF representation at the ConAct German-Israeli Conference

From November 24-26, the ConAct conference took place with around 300 participants. The conference not only covered youth exchange, but also vocational training and voluntary service.

Estefania Casajus, representative for the Israel volunteer programme at the ASF head office in Berlin presented the work in Israel and promoted the Beit Ben Yehuda educational center and guest house. There was a lively exchange at the ASF information stand, with many questions about the premises in Jerusalem. Some conference participants were not yet familiar with BBY and were provided with information. During the conference, there was also an exchange between the organizations of the German-Israeli volunteer service. While volunteer service in Israel is slowly starting up again, we noticed that there is still a great deal of uncertainty in both directions. Young people in Israel are concerned about the rise in anti-Semitism in Germany, which is directed against anyone associated with Israel. For young people in Germany, the uncertain political situation in the region and increasing hostility towards Israel among young people are reasons not to go to Israel. It is clear that the rise in anti-Semitism related to Israel in Germany does not stop at voluntary service. We see the German-Israeli volunteer service as a commitment against anti-Semitism and hostility toward Israel, and we hope that many young people will join us.