Bernard-Henri Lévy, the renowned French philosopher and author, has announced his cancellation to speak at the International Conference on Combatting Antisemitism, scheduled for March 26 and 27, 2025, in Jerusalem. This decision follows the controversial invitation of Jordan Bardella, the president of the far-right party Rassemblement National, and Marion Maréchal, dissident of Éric Zemmour's Reconquête party, to attend the same event.
The conference is organized by Israel's Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and aims to confront the rising tide of antisemitism, particularly since the tragic events of October 7, 2023. BHL, who had initially agreed to deliver the keynote address, made his withdrawal public after learning about the participation of these extreme-right figures. "I have informed President Herzog I will not participate in the event," BHL told Le Monde. "I will have many opportunities to come show my solidarity with Israel. Like I have continued to do since October 7."
BHL's withdrawal raises significant questions about the political alignments within Israel and its relationships with European far-right entities. Historically, the Rassemblement National, formed by former figures associated with the Nazi regime, has been shunned by Israeli institutions due to their long history of antisemitic rhetoric. The invitation of Bardella, which has been termed as “historic” by sources within the party, signifies not only BHL's personal stand against the normalization of such figures but also highlights shifting dynamics within Israeli politics.
Israeli Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli’s meeting with Bardella during the CPAC conference earlier this year indicates Israel’s new approach, distancing itself from the traditional policy of avoiding associations with far-right groups connected to historical antisemitism. This suggests Israel is now seeking to build relationships with European political elements, potentially as part of larger geopolitical strategies, amid rising antisemitism and complex international relations.
The upcoming conference is expected to attract numerous influential personalities from various sectors, including Argentine President Javier Milei and Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, who are also slated to speak. The presence of European conservatives from nations like Spain, Hungary, and the Netherlands adds another layer of complexity to the discussions anticipated at the event.
While the gathering aims to address modern antisemitism's current challenges, BHL's decision to withdraw emphasizes the moral dilemmas leaders often face when aligning themselves with political movements historically antagonistic to Jewish communities. His action reinforces the long-standing opposition to the normalization of what he deems are antisemitic ideas — ideas which have garnered alarming traction across Europe.
Bernard-Henri Lévy’s commitment to stand against rising far-right sentiment embodies his persistent battle against antisemitism and racism. Throughout his career, he has been vocal about the dangers posed by extremist ideologies, advocating for inclusive dialogue and unity among diverse groups. His absence from the conference not only sends a clear message against the acceptance of far-right ideologies but also strengthens the call for broader, more tolerant conversations concerning antisemitism.
The juxtaposition of BHL, a famed advocate for Israel, withdrawing from this significant event starkly contrasts with the inclusion of figures like Bardella and Maréchal, whose ideologies had long been associated with intolerance. Observers will undoubtedly be monitoring how this situation progresses and the imminent impact on both Israeli society and Europe’s political fabric.
Despite the controversies, the International Conference on Combatting Antisemitism remains scheduled to proceed with its varied assembly of speakers and participants. The event not only reflects the growing global concern over antisemitism but also the complex entanglements of politics, ideology, and international relations.
The invitation extended to Bardella and Maréchal signifies not just a momentary lapse but what could be perceived as the beginning of long-term strategies by Israel to engage with historically objectionable political factions. How this will affect Jewish community relationships and antisemitism discourse remains to be seen.
To summarize, BHL's cancellation serves as both personal conviction and political stance against rising extremism, illustrating the difficult choices leaders must make when negotiating the spectrum of political ideologies. His decision resonates with those concerned about the Jewish community's safety and representation within the discourse of antisemitism globally.