WIZO Launches International Gathering to Support Israel’s Social Renewal

In a moving display of unity and commitment, the Women’s International Zionist Organization (WIZO) opened its annual Meeting of Representatives (MOR) Week in Tel Aviv, welcoming around 100 senior delegates from 23 countries. This year’s gathering, themed “We Are Here–Zionism 2026,” marks a powerful return to collective purpose following a difficult period for Israeli society.

Set against the backdrop of Israel’s transition from emergency response to national recovery, WIZO’s MOR Week is focused on supporting communities across the country and strengthening the civic fabric of the nation. Delegates will participate in in-depth visits, dialogues with youth and professionals, and hands-on engagement with the people most affected by recent crises.

World WIZO Chair Anita Friedman called the gathering a “true expression of strength,” highlighting the diversity of nations represented. The opening ceremony was attended by key figures in Israel’s civil and Zionist leadership, including WIZO President Anat Vidor, WIZO Israel Chair Ora Korazim, JNF-KKL Chair Eyal Ostrovsky, Athena Fund President Uri Ben-Ari, and others. The evening also featured performances by Eurovision winner Izhar Cohen, comedian Shahar Levy, and talented students from WIZO Hadassim Youth Village.

In a heartfelt recorded address, President Isaac Herzog praised WIZO’s enduring impact. “These are especially difficult days for our people,” he said. “Here in Israel, we have lost much, and pain and suffering have struck our communities. Yet these moments have drawn forth our deepest resources moral courage, dignity, and a fierce commitment to one another. These qualities are not foreign to WIZO; they are its very heart.”

Herzog’s words echoed the mission that has guided WIZO for over a century: empowering Jewish women, supporting families, and building a just and vibrant Israeli society.

The evening also honored the memory of Tova Ben-Dov, a former WIZO president who spent decades shaping the movement’s path and vision.

WIZO President Anat Vidor reminded the audience that Zionism is not only a cause for Israel but for the global Jewish people. “WIZO is not merely an Israeli social organization, but an international Zionist movement working to protect the Jewish people wherever they may be,” she said. “A strong State of Israel is the central tool for realizing this vision.”

Vidor spoke candidly about the challenges facing Jewish communities worldwide, especially in light of rising antisemitism. “Our mutual responsibility is not a slogan but a binding contract,” she stated. “The presence of our federations here is not symbolic. It is a practical partnership in rebuilding Israeli society and standing firm against global antisemitism.”

In a time when many seek reassurance and strength, WIZO continues to provide both through leadership, love of country, and action. Its message is clear: Israel will continue to rise, not alone, but with its people and partners around the world standing together.

Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for more stories of Jewish strength, unity, and pride in the State of Israel.