39th World Zionist Congress Report
Delegates from around the world, representing Jewish movements of every kind, gathered in Jerusalem for the 39th World Zionist Congress, an inspiring and vital demonstration of Jewish pluralism and democratic process. It was demanding work, but it worked: together, the delegates helped shape the future of Israel and Jewish communities worldwide.
Thanks to MERCAZ’s strong performance in this year’s Zionist Congress elections, our delegation was larger than in 2020, with Masorti representatives from over 15 countries across five continents. It was also more disciplined, effective, and better-led than ever before.
The values of UK Masorti Judaism were proudly represented by Bruce Rigal and Itzik Darel (NNLS), Riki Williams(Noam Mazkira), and Jay Dor (SHEMA).
Preparing for the Congress
In advance of the Congress, the MERCAZ/Masorti team prepared extensively for committee discussions and potential political developments. It wasn’t all hard work, however. On Sunday evening, our delegation enjoyed an inspiring learning session with poet Rachel Korazim, and on Monday morning, they participated in a joyful Shacharit at the Egalitarian Kotel.
That evening, the team gathered at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a special gala honouring the dedication of MERCAZ leaders around the world, including our own Bruce Rigal, recognised for his role in achieving historic success in the recent WZC elections in the UK. Delegates were also honoured to hear from Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
The Congress
The 39th World Zionist Congress opened on Tuesday morning, 28 October with committees meeting to deliberate on 25 proposed resolutions. Several were proposed by MERCAZ/Masorti, including:
Together with our partners, we advocated for greater funding for rebuilding and recovery in Israel’s north and south, for combating antisemitism, and for educating the next generation through Noam and Marom. We also worked to promote pluralism and expanded recognition of diverse expressions of Judaism in Israel. We opposed resolutions that did not align with our values, to ensure these would not pass.
Voting began on Wednesday, 29 October. It took determination, collaboration, and smart coalition-building, but every one of our proposals passed.
Naturally, in the world’s largest Jewish parliament, there were moments of challenge and disagreement. Yet we stood firm in rejecting draft evasion and the appointment of unqualified candidates to positions of influence.
Throughout the process, Dr. Yizhar Hess, Vice Chairman of the WZO and senior representative of MERCAZ Masorti, worked tirelessly to find balanced, values-based solutions. On Thursday, 30 October 2025, he reflected:
“We and our partners continue to work, including throughout last night, to shape a balanced final agreement that reflects our values.”
Looking Ahead
As we conclude the 39th World Zionist Congress, our Masorti representatives return home proud to have ensured that our values, pluralism, democracy, inclusion, and thoughtful Zionism, remain at the heart of the global Jewish conversation.
