UNITED NATIONS
New York, NY — Chagit Sofiev-Leviev, President of the Bukharian Jewish Congress USA & Canada, joined ambassadors and international leaders at the United Nations on September 9 to confront the global rise of antisemitism and call for stronger, coordinated international action to combat it.
During the meeting, Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, announced the formation of a new working group dedicated to fighting antisemitism and developing concrete recommendations for the United Nations and its next Secretary-General.
“The words ‘Never Again’ were not meant to be a slogan,» said Danon. «They were meant to be a commitment. Words, declarations, and statements are not enough to fight the rising antisemitism on the streets, in synagogues, in universities, and even here at the United Nations.»
«It is time for action,» Danon declared. «We thank the countries who have already committed to joining us on this important mission. This mission is not the responsibility of Israel and the Jewish people alone. It is the responsibility of the entire international community.»
Sofiev-Leviev welcomed the initiative, emphasizing that combating antisemitism requires broader international participation.
“We are grateful to the ambassadors who joined the discussion and stood in support, and we hope to see many more countries join this important effort,” said Sofiev-Leviev.
“The fight against antisemitism cannot belong only to the Jewish community. It must be a global responsibility. Words and condemnations are no longer enough — governments and international institutions must translate their support into meaningful action.”
The initiative comes amid growing concern over the sharp increase in antisemitic incidents worldwide and renewed calls for coordinated international efforts to combat hatred, protect Jewish communities, and hold institutions accountable.
In New York alone, the numbers are staggering: antisemitic hate crimes account for more than 56% of all bias offenses in the city—more than any other category—with 330 cases so far in 2026.
By Erin Levi
The Bukharian Times English Editor