Former Austrian Chancellor Appointed to Combat Antisemitism

Former Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz has been appointed co-chair of the European Council on Tolerance and Reconciliation (ECTR) alongside former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, who has been in the role since 2015. This was announced by Council President Moshe Kantor.

The council was established in 2008 as an apolitical institution committed to combating extremism, racism, antisemitism and xenophobia. The Council, made up of European heads of state, Nobel Peace Prize laureates and recognized personalities of achievements – is a think tank for reflection on European policy, for fighting antisemitism and xenophobia, and promoting tolerance.

Kurz is known for his commitment to the fight against all forms of antisemitism, terrorism, extremism and radicalism with a unique focus on preventing youth extremism during his 10 years in government. Kurz was also very vocal in acknowledging Austria’s role in the Holocaust and in supporting educational projects for the younger generation to learn about this dark chapter in history and to make sure that it is never repeated.