The German state of Saxony is considering setting up its own liaison office in Israel. The cabinet is favourably disposed towards his proposal, reported Thomas Feist, the state government’s Commissioner for Jewish Life in Saxony, following the cabinet meeting in Dresden.
Discussions have already taken place with North Rhine-Westphalia to see whether Saxony could join their liaison office. Feist estimated the annual costs at around 200,000 euros.
According to Feist, a liaison office could be particularly important with regard to cooperation in the field of science. He noted that Israel has an excellent educational landscape: “Israel is a high-tech nation.”
On Tuesday, Feist presented his annual report for 2025 to the cabinet. The report takes stock of Jewish life in society and the relevant activities and measures. It also includes an overview of current manifestations of anti-Semitism and strategies for prevention.
“Saxony is sending a clear message. Jewish life is, of course, an integral part of our Free State. The report documents significant progress in promoting Jewish culture and protecting against anti-Semitism, whilst also highlighting the areas where our joint commitment needs to be further strengthened,” emphasised Feist.
Conrad Clemens (CDU), Minister for Culture, expressed concern about the high number of anti-Semitic offences in Saxony. The State Criminal Police Office has recorded more than 200 such offences for the third year running. “This fills us with great concern and shows how important both educational work and consistent law enforcement remain.” By establishing a branch of the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial in Leipzig, Saxony is strengthening the active network of Jewish culture and educational work within the Free State.
Feist was also asked how safe Jewish life in Saxony is. Thanks to a massive police presence, it is safe, the Commissioner clarified. “And because, unfortunately, we are also forced to upgrade security measures in community centres, synagogues and so on (…). This means that life is safe, but the conditions are not those I would accept as the norm. I must also make that very clear.”
Source: Jüdische Allgemeine (in German)