European Days of Jewish Culture open in Sarajevo highlighting the universal theme of love

This year's shared European theme is love, which is being explored by audiences in Bosnia and Herzegovina through a series of lectures, including "The Significance of Jewish Culture in Bosnian-Herzegovinian Society" and "Love in Judaism," alongside a dedicated thematic exhibition.

Jakob Finci, president of the Jewish Community of Bosnia and Herzegovina, presented the 2026 program and reflected on the initiative's origins. "Today we are beginning to mark the European Day of Jewish Culture. Although Jews have lived in Europe for more than 2,000 years, and in our country for almost 500 years, they have always been somewhat separate from the communities in which they live," Finci said. He explained that the initiative began in 1999 when a Spanish Jewish group proposed an open doors day for communities and synagogues, a concept that Sarajevo embraced in 2000 and expanded into a month-long series of events.

"This year’s theme is love, because it seems to be what is most lacking in today’s world, in the 21st century. Despite this being our main theme, there are still more than 40 places in the world where wars are being fought," Finci noted, emphasizing that members of the community feel entirely at home in the country.

Rahela Dzidic, president of the Jewish Community of Sarajevo, underscored that love is both reciprocal and a commandment. "Love is mutual, meaning you have to give something in order to receive love. Love is also an obligation. It is given as a commandment: love God, love your neighbor, preserve tradition," Dzidic stated, adding that locally it translates to affection for the community, homeland, and ancestral heritage. "Our community in Sarajevo is more than 460 years old. Over that period, a tradition of mutual respect, love and support has been established among citizens and members of all religious communities."

Vladimir Andrle, president of the La Benevolencija Jewish Cultural, Educational and Humanitarian Society, noted that the initiative highlights Jewish culture as part of Europe's shared heritage. "As a country located on European soil and a country aspiring to join Europe, we are very happy to take part in these initiatives. This year, we have prepared a rich program that will run until mid-November," Andrle said.

The 2026 events are organized by La Benevolencija and the Jewish Community of Sarajevo, with backing from the FBiH Ministry of Culture and Sports and the City of Sarajevo.