“For me and for all Jews the existence of Israel is of crucial importance, because it gives sense of security and hope!”
The Interviewee – Viktor Melamed (Born 1958) Public Affairs consultant. I was born in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Now I live in Sofia. I’m founding partner at Fama Consulting. I have professional experience of almost 20 years in local public relations consulting, communications, as well as in external relations. I have been free-lance PR and lobbying consultant for several international companies, prior to which I had a long-standing career of more than 20 years for the Bulgarian national air carrier, from advertising editor to Vice president external relations . From 1997 chairing Federation of Zionists in Bulgaria (FZB).
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“For me and for all Jews the existence of Israel is of crucial importance, because it gives sense of security and hope!“
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Yes, of course, in every sense – given the answer to the previous question.”
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?
“No, I don’t feel connected to a specific denomination of Judaism. But I understand the reasons for the orthodox dominance in Israel.“
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“Yes, in some way.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“They don’t always understand that we have to put into account the establishment of the country of residence.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“These relations are very close but beyond the official politics.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Yes, of course and vice versa.”
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?
“Many times. I have relatives there. The life is intense and specific in Israel. Some times more specific.”
What was your best experience of Israeli culture in the past year (book, music, TV, movie, theater etc.)?
“The book with novels of Etgar Keret – “Missing Kissinger” impressed me the most.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?
“I live in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. The Jewish community there is almost 3,500 people. There are a lot mixed marriages. In our city we have two synagogues – Sephardic (one of the best in Europe) and Chabad, two community centers, kindergarten and Jewish school, home for elderly people. A lot of programs for all generations. Very active life.”
