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- January 27-28, 2025
- Heidelberg University for Jewish Studies
Friends, Enemies, Frenemies - Ambivalences of Jewish-Muslim Relations
GIF Director, Dr. Eric Zimmerman, attended the opening of the GYSM seminar Friends, Enemies, Ambivalences of Jewish-Muslim Relations on January 27, 2025, at Heidelberg University. This seminar, his last before the end of his tenure, focused on the complex relationships between Jewish and Muslim communities. The event was organized by the Hochschule für Jüdische Studien Heidelberg and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, with support from the German-Israeli Foundation, the Van Leer Jerusalem Institute, the Department for Islamic and Middle East Studies and the Freigeist research group Invisible Architects at Heidelberg University, the BMBF (Federal German Ministry of Education and Research), the DFG Research Training Group Ambivalent Enmity, and the Chaim Herzog Center for Middle East Studies and Diplomacy at the Ben Gurion University of the Negev. Zimmerman’s participation in this seminar reflects his ongoing dedication to research and dialogue in the field. To begin the seminar, he delivered a welcome speech, which is shared below:
“Good morning, everyone.
It’s truly wonderful to be here with all of you at what is both a bittersweet and exciting moment for me—my last seminar as the Director of the German – Israeli Foundation for Scientific Research and Development. After an incredible journey with GIF, this week marks the end of my tenure, and I couldn’t imagine a more fitting topic for today’s seminar, organizational partnerships and the significance of host locations.
I recognize that today marks the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust. This day reminds us of the unimaginable atrocities of the past, the resilience of survivors, and our shared responsibility to ensure that such horrors are never repeated. The work we do, fostering collaboration between Germany and Israel, is imbued with a deep awareness of history and the commitment to build bridges of understanding and progress between our nations. We are the social engineers of our time.
Partnerships are at the heart of everything we do in science and academia. They allow us to transcend geographical, cultural, and disciplinary boundaries. The collaboration between Germany and Israel is a shining example of this. Both nations, with their unique historical experiences and scientific legacies, bring invaluable perspectives to the table. By joining forces, we create opportunities for dialogue, discovery, and innovation that would be impossible to achieve alone.
The importance of host locations cannot be overstated either. Being here at the Hochschule, near Heidelberg University and numerous prestigious research institutions —a true hub of world class interdisciplinary study and a center for Jewish studies—underscores the power of place in shaping conversations. Similarly, Jerusalem, as a host location in our partnerships, offers its own distinct context. Locations like these are more than just physical spaces; they serve as symbolic and intellectual arenas where new ideas can take root and flourish.
Now, let me focus on why these efforts matter so much, particularly for early-career scientists from Germany and Israel. This stage of a researcher’s life is one of curiosity, creativity, and courage. By fostering collaboration between young scientists from these two countries, we’re equipping them with not only cutting-edge scientific knowledge but also the soft skills—empathy, cross-cultural understanding, and respect—that are essential for addressing global challenges.
These partnerships allow them to explore each other’s worldviews, question their assumptions, and grow as both scientists and individuals. They are given the chance to step into roles that transcend their academic fields and contribute to building the bridges of tomorrow.
Thank you to the organizers who made this seminar, and indeed, many of our initiatives, possible. My deepest gratitude to Rector Dr. Andreas Brämer from the Hochschule für Jüdische Studien Heidelberg, Prof. Oren Barak from the Hebrew University, and Prof. Dr. Johannes Becke from Heidelberg University. Also, to Dr. Uri Rosenberg, Dr. Lily Eilan, Anja Romberger (Organizing team), Selahattin Beser, and Chancellor Caroline Kiss. Your leadership and dedication have been instrumental in fostering the collaborative spirit that defines this program. Thank you for your unwavering support of the German – Israeli Foundation’s mission and for your role in making this event such a success.
As I step away from my role at GIF, most regrettably under circumstances that remain unclear, I am filled with a complex mix of emotions. While I did not anticipate this transition, my heart overflows with gratitude for the opportunity to have been part of such transformative connections. The relationships we have nurtured and the collaborations we have championed are a testament to the resilience of partnerships, even in the face of unforeseen challenges. Though my time as Director is ending, I remain deeply invested in the mission of fostering understanding, innovation, and cooperation between Germany and Israel. I am confident that the seeds we have planted together will continue to grow, yielding new fruits of discovery, empathy, and progress.
In the spirit of hope and healing, I acknowledge the profound significance of the recent return of the Israeli hostages. This moment of reunion is a testament to the strength of human resilience and the enduring bonds of family and community. It serves as a reminder of the preciousness of freedom and the unyielding pursuit of justice and compassion in the face of adversity. As we reflect on this development, let us recommit ourselves to creating a world where such tragedies are a thing of the past and where collaboration and understanding prevail.
Thank you all for your dedication, passion, and partnership. Together, we have proven that science and collaboration can transcend boundaries and build a brighter future.
I wish you all a most successful seminar. Thank you to presenters and listeners alike. May these days mark the beginning of many collaborative efforts.
Thank you.”
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