HONORARY MEMBERS

Baroness Regina Sluszny-Suchowolsk

“Shining Figure” of Holocaust Remembrance and Human Rights.

Regina Sluszny-Suchowolski epitomises the resilience and unwavering commitment to justice that characterises those who have experienced the darkest chapters of history. As Chairwoman of the Forum der Joodse Organisaties (the umbrella organisation of the Flemish Jewish Community) and Vice-President of the Hidden Child Association, Regina has dedicated her life to preserving the memory of the Holocaust and advocating for human rights.

Regina’s journey as a hidden child during the Holocaust and how she met her future husband Georges Suchowolski, detailed in her latest book “The Forgotten Children of the War”, offers a poignant testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. Her personal story, intertwined with that of her husband, sheds light on the often-overlooked experiences of hidden Jewish children and serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of intolerance and discrimination.

Beyond her literary contributions, Regina’s advocacy work has been instrumental in advancing Holocaust remembrance and education in Belgium and beyond. From lobbying Belgian ministries to promoting Jewish interests on a national level to securing official recognition and compensation for Holocaust victims, Regina has been a tireless champion for justice and reconciliation.

Regina’s impact extends beyond the pages of her book and the halls of government. Through her continued engagement with schools, associations, and official ceremonies, she shares her story, warning against the dangers of intolerance, discrimination, racism, and antisemitism. Her recent appointment as Baroness by Philippe, the King of the Belgians is a testament to the enduring relevance of her message and the profound impact of her advocacy efforts.

The EUJS proudly honours Regina Suchowolski-Sluszny for her extraordinary contributions to Holocaust remembrance and human rights. May her legacy inspire future generations to confront the past, uphold the values of justice and compassion, and work towards a more inclusive and equitable world.

Věra Jourová

Věra Jourová, a captivating figure in Czech and European politics, has garnered a reputation as a champion of equality, transparency, and democratic values. Her inspiring career is characterized by an unwavering commitment to creating a fairer society.

In her role as the European Commission’s Commissioner for Values and Transparency, Věra Jourová has contributed with commitment and determination to strengthening the EU’s founding principles. Her focus on equality and the promotion of democratic values is evident in the numerous initiatives she has undertaken.

Internationally as well as nationally, Věra Jourová has worked tirelessly to enhance the rights of women, minorities, and disadvantaged groups. Her work serves as an inspiring example of how political leadership can contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and just society.

The European Union of Jewish Students (EUJS) has paid a special tribute to the outstanding commitment of Věra Jourová, a prominent personality passionately devoted to equality and democracy in 2023 through awarding her a Honorary membership of the organisation.

The Honorary membership awarded to Vice President Jourová is a recognition of her tremendous support and commitment to fostering Jewish life in Europe and combating antisemitism. Throughout her years at the Commission, she took the time to meet with many EU activism cohorts and listened to the concerns of European young Jews in their respective countries. Her commitment and interest in hearing the voices of the youth have made her an integral part of the EUJS family.

May her vision of a fairer world continue to inspire young people to actively stand up for the values that form the foundation of a free and inclusive society.

David Harris

David Harris, born in 1949, represents a captivating personality in the field of Jewish-American activism. His ongoing commitment to the promotion of human rights and tolerance has had a lasting impact not only on the Jewish community, but also on global society.

Throughout his impressive career, David Harris persistently campaigned for the elimination of prejudice and discrimination. He paid particular attention to interfaith dialogue, which he saw as a means of creating links between different communities and fostering deeper understanding between people of different faiths.

As an advocate for democracy and human rights, David Harris helped to protect the safety and rights of Jewish communities worldwide. His passionate dedication to justice is reflected in his tireless pursuit of a world characterised by peace, understanding and respect.

David Harris has been a leader in Jewish advocacy, a tireless visionary and a voice for Jewish people – who always ensured that EUJS has a seat at the table. We honour David Harris for his inspiring commitment and pioneering contributions to the promotion of peace, understanding and human rights.

In 2022, the European Union of Jewish Students (EUJS) has paid tribute to the impressive life’s work of David Harris, a passionate advocate of human rights and intercultural dialogue, through an honorary membership to EUJS.

May his legacy continue to encourage young people to actively work for a more inclusive and fairer world, and inspire the inclusion of youth at the table for generations to come.

Simone Veil

Simone Veil was a French politician and lawyer who was born in Nice in 1927. She survived the Auschwitz extermination camp and later became a pioneering figure in European politics. As France’s Minister of Health, she campaigned for the legalisation of abortion and introduced the famous “Loi Veil” (Veil Law), which was passed in 1975. This law was a milestone for women’s rights and paved the way for self-determination over one’s own body.

Simone Veil was the first elected president of the European Parliament and she played a crucial role in promoting European integration. Her work helped to strengthen the fundamental values of the European Union and raise awareness of the importance of freedom, equality and human rights.

Her life story is an impressive example of resilience, courage and dedication to a just cause. As a survivor of the Holocaust, Simone Veil helped to keep the memory of the horrors of the past alive while actively working for a better future.

The European Union of Jewish Students (EUJS) has given Honorary membership to an outstanding personality who not only played a significant role in the history of Europe, but is also an inspiring figure for women’s rights and humanitarian commitment.

EUJS pays tribute to Simone Veil for her lifelong dedication to humanitarian values and her crucial role in shaping European history. May her inspiring life story continue to encourage young people to stand up for justice, equality and peace.