Center for Israel Studies

The Center for Israel Studies was founded in 2013 as an organization based in Vienna, the cradle of Zionism. It is dedicated to stimulating interest and enhancing the knowledge of modern Israel in its amplitude and diversity. It intends to attract scholars, students and the general public.

The center will host monthly public lectures on issues concerning Israeli history, society and culture, as well as films, artistic performances, and music. Prominent scholars from all disciplines in academia, international experts, as well as artists, authors, and public figures will illuminate nuances of the contemporary, dynamic, and polarized Israeli scene. The lectures are designed to serve as a high-level forum for the exchange of perspectives and will take place at the Diplomatic Academy and the University of Vienna.

We are committed to broadening the understanding of Israeli society and its culture amongst the general Austrian/German audience.

NEWS:

SYMPOSIUM 27 November 2024

“Remembering What Herzl Stood For: The Past and Future of Zionism”

VIDEO ONLINE AVAILABLE (see below)

On 27 November 2024, the Vienna School of International Studies (Diplomatic Academy) hosted a symposium titled
“Remembering What Herzl Stood For: The Past and Future of Zionism”
to mark the 120th anniversary of Theodor Herzl’s death. The event, featuring prominent speakers, reflected on Herzl’s enduring vision for a Jewish state and its contemporary relevance.

Ambassador Dr. Emil Brix, the Director of the Academy, and Deputy Head of Mission of Israel to Austria, Ilay Levy, set the stage with words of welcome. Prof. Dr. Mitchell Ash, President of the Center for Israel Studies Vienna, offered a warm introduction, underscoring the importance of Herzl’s legacy. The symposium brought together distinguished scholars, including Prof. Arieh Saposnik from Ben Gurion University, Dr. Stephan Wendehorst from Vienna’s Juridicum, Alon Ishay, President of the Jewish Student Union, and Prof. Dr. Fania Oz Salzberger from the University of Haifa.

The discussions centered on Herzl’s vision, notably his emphasis on equality, justice, and liberty, as reflected in Israel’s 1948 Declaration of Independence. The speakers explored Herzl’s ideas through historical and contemporary lenses, considering how they continue to shape the future of Zionism and the state of Israel. The speeches were followed by a vibrant (though provoking) discussion.

The event, co-sponsored by the Österreichisch-Israelische Gesellschaft, New Israel Fund Austria, and the Josef Shaked Fonds, successfully fostered a thoughtful and enriching dialogue on Herzl’s legacy, offering valuable insights into the challenges and prospects of Zionism in today’s world.

👉For the video please click
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urB3TNEtuYo

Article “Der Standard”; Interview: Eric Frey with Prof. Dr. Arieh Saposnik: click here

October 2023

Statement of the Center for Israel Studies Vienna

The Center for Israel Studies Vienna stands in solidarity with the people of Israel against the vicious aggression of Hamas and its allies. As our Board member Doron Rabinovici writes, „This is the moment to take a clear stand. Whoever seeks to relativize the horrific deeds of Hamas by pointing to the Israeli occupation defends mass murderers.“

On behalf of the Board: Professor Mitchell G. Ash, President

Center for Israel Studies

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