With a special ceremony today, the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom” marked the 83rd anniversary of the Rescue of the Bulgarian Jews and honored the memory of the 11,343 Jews from Aegean Thrace, Vardar Macedonia, and Pirot.
“Today we gather to remember one of the brightest and most deeply moral events in our history—the rescue of the Bulgarian Jews,” said Dr. Alina Levi, Chair of the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom,” in front of the Monument of Salvation. According to her, March 10 is also a day of remembrance for more than 11,000 Jews from Aegean Thrace, Vardar Macedonia, and Pirot who were not saved. Their tragedy remains an inseparable part of our history. “This memory is especially important today—at a time when antisemitism is reappearing, sometimes openly, sometimes in more subtle forms. At a time of wars and uncertainty, when the principles of humanity are once again being called into question,” Levi added.
“Every year we come to the Monument of Salvation to read one of the most righteous pages in Bulgarian history,” said President Iliana Yotova. “Eighty-three years ago, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, clergy, politicians, public figures, and ordinary people showed that human life is more important,” the head of state added.
“On this day, we celebrate not only the saving of human lives, but also the memory of Bulgaria—to which we must return in these difficult times we are going through,” said caretaker Minister of Foreign Affairs Nadezhda Neynski.
Children from the community’s educational institutions, along with many citizens and public figures, laid flowers at the Monument of Salvation.
Position regarding attempts to rewrite the history of the Holocaust
Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom”, representing the Bulgarian Jewish community, part of the family of the World Jewish Congress and a partner of all major organizations dedicated to Holocaust research and remembrance, considers it its duty, on the eve of March 10 — the Day of the Rescue of the Bulgarian Jews and the Day of Remembrance for the deported Jews from Macedonia, the Aegean region, and Pirot — to declare the following:
We remember, honor, and pass on the history and legacy of the worthy Bulgarians, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, intellectuals, and public figures, among whom are 20 Righteous Among the Nations. Their actions led to the extraordinary events that took place 80 years ago.
We will not remain indifferent to the attempts in recent weeks to alter the history of the Holocaust in Bulgaria by portraying the severe antisemitic laws and state measures enacted by the Bulgarian government at the time as merely nominally adopted but nonexistent in practice. Let us not forget that these were laws and decrees that caused suffering to thousands of people during the Holocaust.
This is an insult both to the memory of our ancestors and to the merits of all righteous Bulgarians from that period, and we will not remain silent in the face of such disregard for the Holocaust, which in many countries of the European Union is considered a crime.
We are alarmed by the institutional support that these revisionists of history are receiving, and we call upon all state institutions to adhere to the already established historical truth.
Position against the emergence of events in Bulgaria that are designated as “forbidden for Zionists.”
The Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom” and its partners from the Federation of Zionists in Bulgaria, the Organization of Friends of Israel in Bulgaria “Negev”, the Central Israelite Spiritual Council, and the office of the American Jewish Committee in Bulgaria are extremely concerned and alarmed by the emergence in Bulgaria of events that are designated as “forbidden for Zionists.”
We would like to remind that Zionism is a national liberation movement of the Jewish people, which emerged at the end of the 19th century with the aim of securing its right to self-determination in its historical homeland. It is not a racist ideology, but an expression of the same right to national existence that all peoples have, including the Bulgarian people.
Attempts to stigmatize or ban Zionism constitute discrimination against Jewish identity and beliefs. Equating Zionism with racism has been historically and legally refuted, and restricting people based on their support for the Jewish people’s right to self-determination falls within modern understandings of antisemitism.
We call on the institutions and society in Bulgaria to clearly uphold the principles of democracy, equality, and freedom of belief, and to not allow hate speech and division in our society.
THE EXHIBITION “THE NICHE”
The new exhibition “The Niche” was inaugurated at the Central Sofia Synagogue – a cultural and spiritual space dedicated to memory, continuity, and the preservation of Jewish cultural heritage in Bulgaria. The exhibition presents a selection of artefacts that tell stories about the community, its spirituality, and its place within the historical fabric of the country.
The Central Sofia Synagogue is not only an active house of worship, but also one of the most significant architectural and cultural landmarks in the capital. Since its inauguration in the early 20th century, the building has held a central place in the spiritual and public life of the Jewish community in Bulgaria, combining religious function with cultural and educational roles. It is precisely this living context that makes the synagogue a natural home for an exhibition dedicated to the preservation, research, and presentation of Jewish cultural heritage.
“The Niche” is a space where the past comes alive, where memory becomes a bridge between generations and where a small book can tell a great story. “The Niche” is more than an exhibition space. It is a place of memory, meaning, and continuity, where religious objects, personal narratives, and symbols of the spiritual heritage of Bulgarian Jews find their rightful home.
Statement of the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom” regarding the proposal to rename “Herzog Park” in Dublin.
We join the appeal of the European Jewish Congress and express full support for the Irish Jewish Representative Council regarding the proposal to remove the name “Herzog Park” in Dublin.
The attempt to erase the legacy of President Chaim Herzog, an Irish-born individual of deep significance to the country’s history, is not a mere administrative change.
It affects an important symbol of Jewish contribution to Irish society at a time of growing hostility toward Jewish communities in Europe. Removing his name from public space sends the message that Jewish heritage can be questioned and devalued. We call on the Dublin city councillors to reject the proposal and to clearly state that Jewish history is an inseparable part of Irish history.
Chaim Herzog is an outstanding figure of the 20th century: born and raised in Dublin, a volunteer in the British Army, a participant in the Normandy landings, and an active fighter against Nazism. He made a significant contribution to the investigation of war crimes and was among the initiators of the criminalization of antisemitism.
For us in Bulgaria, Chaim Herzog left a strong mark through his visit in 1991 as President of Israel, which contributed to the development of modern Bulgarian–Israeli relations.
We believe that the people of Dublin are guided by values and respect for history and for individuals who have contributed to democracy, freedom, and human dignity.
We call on the Dublin City Council to preserve the name “Herzog Park” as part of the historical memory of Ireland, Europe, and the Jewish community.
Position of the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom” regarding comments made by officials from the Republic of North Macedonia
To Georg Georgiev Minister of Foreign Affairs Republic of Bulgaria
To Embassy of the Republic of North Macedonia in Bulgaria
Dear Mr. Georgiev,
We, representing the Bulgarian Jews through the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom”, the Central Israelite Spiritual Council, the Federation of Zionists in Bulgaria, the Organization of Friends of Israel in Bulgaria “Negev”, are extremely concerned by the comments made by official representatives of the Republic of North Macedonia.
We believe that words which create confrontation and hatred ultimately lead to actions, and therefore we are deeply alarmed both by the remarks of the Prime Minister of the country, Hristijan Mickoski, directed at a Bulgarian minister, and by the statements of the Mayor of the city of Kumanovo and chairman of the “Znam” movement, Maksim Dimitrievski, in which developments related to North Macedonia’s EU accession path are compared to the tragedy of the Holocaust. Such comparisons not only distort historical facts but also trivialize the incomparable horrors of the Holocaust—the systematic murder of six million Jews by the Nazi regime.
We are deeply disturbed by these words and state that invoking the Holocaust in unrelated political or social contexts diminishes the weight of this unique tragedy and disrespects the memory of its victims.
We call on public figures to demonstrate responsibility and sensitivity when speaking about history and events connected to such profound human suffering. As the number of living survivors diminishes, it is now even more important to ensure that comparisons to the genocide of the Jews for the purpose of political gain are absolutely unacceptable.
We have always stated and will continue to maintain that the history of the Jews during the Second World War and the memory of the victims must not be used for contemporary political purposes and populism. As members of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, both Bulgaria and North Macedonia have a clear commitment to preserve memory and pass on the lessons of the Holocaust. Instead, we are witnessing how Mr. Dimitrievski is using the memory of the victims for his election campaign, while simultaneously generating hatred toward the Bulgarian people.
It is also unacceptable for a Bulgarian Foreign Minister to be addressed with derogatory epithets by the head of the government of the Republic of North Macedonia. We believe in the shared European future of both countries—a future that must be built on cooperation and partnership, not division and insults.
We also take this opportunity to express our gratitude for the continuous efforts in combating contemporary antisemitism by the Ministry you lead, through the office of the National Coordinator for Combating Antisemitism.
Respectfully,
Dr. Alina Levi Chairperson, Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom”
Maksim Delchev Chairperson, Central Israelite Spiritual Council
Prof. Alexander Oscar Chairperson, Organization of Friends of Israel in Bulgaria “NEGEV”
Nikolay Galabov Chairperson, Federation of Zionists in Bulgaria
Viktor Melamed Director, American Jewish Committee Office in Bulgaria and North Macedonia
The Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom” will not take part in campaigns to rewrite history.
We will not remain silent, nor will we show indifference when outright lies are being told about the fate of the Bulgarian Jews during the Second World War—lies that lead to a new spiral of untruths and “alternative facts.”
“Shalom” is the legal successor of the Consistory of the Jews in Bulgaria prior to 1944. We are a public organization with a structure, membership, governing bodies, and statutes—an established part of civil society.
We will not allow this position to be undermined in the name of foreign political interests or projects.
We express our gratitude for the support of the Ambassador of the State of Israel to Bulgaria, H.E. Yossi Levi Sfari, who has taken a clear position.
NEGEV Central Israelite Spiritual Council Federation of Zionists in Bulgaria
The Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom” elected its new chairperson
Dr. Alina Levi was born in the same year that the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom” was founded, and she sees this community as a key factor in her professional and personal development. At 35, she lives in Sofia with her husband and two children and works as a pediatric ophthalmologist at Aleksandrovska University Hospital.
Her candidacy is built on carefully developed priorities: an active and engaged community, education, financial planning, transparency, and a strong civic stance. These principles reflect her strategic approach to community development, aimed at ensuring stability and a high-quality future for all its members.
Professionally, Dr. Levi graduated from the Medical University of Sofia and has completed specializations and training at some of the most renowned ophthalmology clinics in Switzerland and Croatia. In 2024, she completed a two-month course at Harvard Business School under Prof. Margolis, focused on leadership, sustainable management, and social impact.
Since 2016, she has been actively involved in “Shalom”: she served on the Board (2016–2020), has been a member of the Consistory since 2016, a member of the Executive Bureau since 2020, and since 2017 has been Chair of the “Bet Shalom” Foundation, where she contributed to building and developing the community school into a recognized institution for quality education.
Mihaylina Pavlova: Congratulations on your election. The first woman chair of the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom,” and such a young one!
Alina Levi: Thank you. This is incredibly exciting for me, and I accept this choice with humility and gratitude. I hope that in the future it won’t be seen as something unusual or new—so I’m just the first of many.
M.P.: Why did you accept this challenge?
A.L.: I really like challenges. For me, life outside the comfort zone is very important—that’s where I feel growth, progress, and the things that truly matter happening.
I accepted the role because I deeply believe in our community. Over the past years, being part of the organization’s leadership, I’ve seen that through it, our community can truly live a full and authentic life. I’m grateful for how I grew up in it and for everything it has given me.
I want future generations to have the same opportunities I had. This “home away from home” shapes you into a person anywhere in the world—it gives you wings and the meaning to become the best version of yourself.
You feel part of a history that spans over five thousand years. You see your connection to the entire Jewish people. Without this community, I wouldn’t have that connection—this vast heritage wouldn’t be part of my life.
M.P.: And it became that for you?
A.L.: Yes—but this is just one step. I don’t see myself as a beginning or an end. I’m a small piece of a puzzle, a link in a chain—and the chain is what keeps the machine moving. My role is to connect what has been with what is to come.
M.P.: How do you see the organization as you take it over?
A.L.: I see meaning in it. When I was growing up, the community and the organization felt like two different things. I didn’t understand the organization—it had its own life. Now I see it as a brave, authentic part of our community—one that asks the right questions, helps people search for answers together, and unites them.
I’m proud of this organization—especially for taking positions on issues where it would have been easier not to. For having the courage to speak uncomfortable truths. It has enormous potential.
“Shalom” has grown tremendously. It has become something significant. Many people work across different areas to ensure members feel supported and have access to what they need. We built a school, we have a children’s center, and our camps remain the heart of our children’s development. We also have a functioning social system—but it can improve further. We must keep striving for sustainability in every sense.
M.P.: What did the children’s camps teach you?
A.L.: There’s nothing else like that experience—being able to disconnect from everything for two weeks and immerse yourself completely. It’s a kind of magic—friendships and conflicts form, and you grow in a very special way. You feel both free and protected, as if under a glass dome. And every time you leave it, you realize how meaningful it was. There are certain smells and tastes you never forget—that’s what a Jewish summer camp is for me.
M.P.: Did your colleagues understand this?
A.L.: Not at all. I even had to postpone an exam—my ophthalmology exam—to go as a madrich (youth leader).
At a job interview, they asked how I could fail an exam in my chosen specialty. I told them I had no choice—I couldn’t miss this experience. It was that important, and it still is.
M.P.: Let’s return to your priorities—what directions will you focus on?
A.L.: I have a vision for the next four years, but it’s important to develop these priorities as a team—with the Consistory and the Executive Bureau.
Education remains central—both in our school and children’s center, and in future infrastructure projects. Another key focus is financial independence.
The world is unstable and divided—we can’t rely on others to recognize the value of what we do. We need a clear financial strategy to ensure stability and independence.
Another priority is increasing engagement. Many people who grew up in our community may no longer feel connected or know how to contribute. I want to hear them—to understand what matters to them.
“Shalom” is not just a provider of resources—it’s our space for shaping what we want in our lives. And that must come from us.
Transparency is also essential. I want people to understand how decisions are made and to feel confident in the organization’s governance.
And of course—our active public stance. Whether it’s fighting hate speech, preserving the history of Bulgarian Jews during World War II, Holocaust remembrance, human rights partnerships, global issues, or support for Israel—this commitment remains.
We can’t thrive as a community if the world around us is falling apart. We don’t have the luxury of silence.
M.P.: Are you satisfied with the newly elected leadership bodies?
A.L.: Absolutely. It’s encouraging that more people want to be involved. I value the diversity—across generations, genders, and experience. There’s continuity and fresh energy, and I’m inspired to work with this team.
M.P.: Where do you want to position the organization—locally and globally?
A.L.: It’s already well positioned, both internationally among Jewish organizations and as a strong NGO in Bulgaria. I want to maintain that—but also focus inward.
I want things to become more professional, more connected to people. More members should feel represented and supported. Even if the world is unstable, people should feel they have backing—just like I felt in the camps.
M.P.: What kind of person are you?
A.L.: It’s easier for others to say. But I try to make people feel good. I’m a team player. I believe success is greater when shared. I trust people.
M.P.: That requires dialogue…
A.L.: Absolutely—but it’s a two-way process. Everyone must be equally engaged.
I see our community as something valuable that we must care for. Dialogue is easier when both sides share that belief.
I don’t expect everyone to agree—diversity of opinion is healthy. But we must work together. Everyone should give what they can.
M.P.: You balance medicine, public work, and family…
A.L.: It’s been difficult at times, but nothing works without family. I’m deeply grateful to mine—my husband, parents, relatives. Their support gives me strength.
When I see my children, I find the energy for everything. You just have to remember what matters most.
M.P.: A wish for all of us?
A.L.: Health for everyone—and understanding that support is something you earn through work. I welcome both criticism and support. Different perspectives help us grow.
I’ll work to do things the right way—and I want to hear everyone’s voice.
M.P.: Good luck, Alina.
Photos: Lea Alexandrova
H.E. Yossi Levi-Sfari congratulates Prof. Dr. Alexander Oscar
Position regarding the Fate of the Jews under Bulgarian Administration during the Years of the Second World War
The Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria “Shalom” has an official position on the issue of the fate of the Jews under Bulgarian administration during the years of the Holocaust in Europe. This position was adopted by the governing body of “Shalom” — the Consistory — on December 23, 2021. Our position is as follows:
During the years of the Second World War, Bulgarian Jews were subjected to persecution and suffering as a result of the “Law for the Protection of the Nation,” adopted at the beginning of 1941, and the subsequent anti-Jewish legislation. Nearly 30,000 Jews from the city of Sofia and other cities were displaced and forced to live far from their homes; 13,000 men were interned and compelled to perform hard physical labor in labor battalions.
Bulgarian Jews were saved from deportation to the Nazi death camps. Their rescue was the result of the actions of the greater part of the Bulgarian people, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, and the Bulgarian anti-fascist public. For this act of solidarity and determination, Bulgarian Jews will always remain grateful.
The deportation of the Jews from Aegean Thrace, Vardar Macedonia, and the city of Pirot during the Second World War is a historical fact that cannot be denied. We, the Bulgarian Jews, mourn the innocent victims, honor, and will continue to honor their memory. Responsibility for the deportation of the Jews from these territories lies with the German authorities together with the Bulgarian pro-Nazi government.
The historical facts concerning the fate of the Jews during the Second World War in the Kingdom of Bulgaria and in the territories under the administration of the Bulgarian pro-Nazi government cannot serve as grounds for anti-Bulgarian propaganda today or in the future. The peoples of a new, united Europe have understood the lessons of the Second World War and are building their relations on the basis of mutual understanding, respect, and a forward-looking perspective, without assigning responsibility to today’s generations. We call upon the Bulgarian state, at a time and in a manner it deems appropriate, to assume moral responsibility for the actions of the pro-Nazi government toward the Jews during the period 1941–1944.
