“I always say Israel is a democracy, and those who live there also determine the country’s politics.”
The Interviewee – Max Meyer (Born 1952), Chairman In the Danish Plumbing Union and unpaid President Of the Danish Zionist Federation. I was born and live today in Copenhagen, my parents are from Poland and Germany. My wife is from Israel and have 2 children and 2 grandchildren.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“Everything- Israel is for me and my family our life insurance.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“I feel it is my duty always to defend Israel.”
Do you affiliate yourself with a specific denomination in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox denomination in Israel religious establishment?
“I an a Jew, mostly in my heart. I an not religious but celebrate the holidays In Copenhagen Synagogue.“
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“I always say Israel is a democracy, and those who live there also determine the country’s politics.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“The great work we are doing to defend Israel.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“Poor and superficial.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Yes, aid should always go both ways.”
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?
“I love Israel more than anywhere on earth. But of course mentality quite different from here in Denmark and it makes it hard to live there as a foreigner.”
What was your best experience of Israeli culture in the past year (book, music, TV, movie, theater etc.)?
“TV series, that we have bought In Israel.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?
“A very small congregation that does not deal much with Israel. Here is the Danish Zionist Federation, where I spend much time and effort information on Israel to schools and media.”
