The Jewish Everyday Rights Forum (JERF) 

“Article 22 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) establishes the right to social security and the realisation of economic, social and cultural rights” (Article 22, Universal Declaration of Human Rights).

JERF is inspired by the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. We believe in the power of shared experiences and strategic engagement to influence policymakers and strengthen alliances. Through JERF, we provide a platform for Jewish organizations to share their insights, learn from each other, and collectively advocate for the legal enshrinement of socio-economic rights.

The Jewish Everyday Rights Forum (JERF) is a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to ensuring Jewish perspectives are at the forefront of the socio-economic rights movement. By uniting Jewish organisations focused on food security, healthcare, and housing, JERF aims to channel these collective experiences into national advocacy efforts. Our mission is to amplify Jewish voices, foster collaboration, and drive policy changes that uphold dignity and justice for all. 

Addressing urgent needs: As socio-economic challenges intensify, many in the Jewish community face increasing difficulties in accessing essential services like housing, healthcare, and food. JERF is committed to addressing these urgent needs by advocating for policies that ensure equitable access and uphold human rights.

Building stronger alliances: JERF brings together frontline Jewish organisations to strengthen national alliances and amplify Jewish experiences in socio-economic rights discussions. By working collaboratively, we aim to influence policy changes that promote justice and dignity.

Advocating for legal change: At this pivotal moment, JERF is dedicated to advocating for the legal enshrinement of everyday rights. Our efforts focus on ensuring that Jewish voices are heard and considered in the development of policies that impact socio-economic rights.

Empowering Jewish Advocates: Through training and strategic engagement, JERF empowers Jewish advocates to leverage human rights frameworks in their work. We provide opportunities for learning and collaboration, equipping our members with the tools needed to effect meaningful change.

 

                                                  Credit: Zuo Biao Peng

Key Functions of JERF

JERF provides a dedicated space for Jewish organisations to come together, discuss shared priorities, and strategise on pressing issues related to housing, health, and food security.

(1) Convening Space: JERF provides a dedicated space for Jewish organisations to come together, discuss shared priorities, and strategise on pressing issues related to housing, health, and food security.

(2) Avocacy Platform: Through JERF, Jewish perspectives are elevated in national dialogues on socio-economic rights, ensuring that the community’s experiences and needs are represented in policy-making processes.

(3) Resource Hub: JERF acts as a resource hub, offering members access to training, shared learning opportunities, and strategic engagement to enhance their advocacy efforts.

(4) Training Opportunities: Members benefit from specialised training sessions, such as those provided by JustFair, to effectively use human rights frameworks in their work.

JERF Members include:

Rabbi Herschel Gluck 

JW3 Foodbank 

Marvar

Tzelem

Geraldine Van Bueren KC

Get involved:

1) Join JERF: if you are a Jewish organisation working on food, housing and health rights and you’d like to be involved in the forum, please email us at jonathan.chern@renecassin.org. 

2) Hear more about our work: if you’d like to hear more about our approach to Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, please be in touch with us via the ‘contact’ page on the website. 

 

What people say...

“It is vital to have such perspectives to deepen the understanding of the needs in rights protection so that what is developed is appropriate and inclusive for everyone. I think that the work Réne Cassin is doing in this space is very much needed and… I can see how broadening its work to socio-economic rights more generally will be hugely valuable and welcome.”

Helen Flynn, Head of Policy, Research and Campaigns at Just Fair.

Ways you can help our economic, Social and cultural rights campaign. 

There are many steps you can take to help grow and support this initiative to improve the safety of vulnerable groups.

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