In honour of International Women’s Day, Israel Bonds Women’s Division in France, in partnership with Moadon, hosted an engaging lecture and discussion featuring Caroline Yadan, distinguished lawmaker and tireless advocate for human rights, representing French citizens living outside France. The conversation was led by Jean-Philippe Lustyk, journalist, author, speaker, producer, and renowned boxing expert and commentator, guided a thoughtful and dynamic exchange.

Elizabeth Cohen, Caroline Yadan & Dr Catherine Lacrosnière, Israel Bonds Women's Division

Ms. Yadan delivered an in-depth discussion to over 150 attendees on what the French media call “the Yadan Law,” a proposed piece of legislation she spearheaded to address the evolving forms of anti-Semitism in France. She detailed how anti-Jewish tropes have shifted across political and ideological groups, and how her proposal aims to strengthen laws on incitement to terrorism, recognize certain anti-Israel rhetoric as antisemitic, and enable the closure of houses of worship where racist hatred or terrorist advocacy is promoted.

Adding further context to the discussion, Stephan Goldin, analyst on security and military matters and Managing Editor for i24NEWS, provided an expert update on Israel’s security situation, offering attendees a timely perspective on the challenges facing the country today.

With decades of experience as a lawyer, politician, and anti-discrimination activist, Ms. Yadan shared unparalleled insight into the legislative process and the delicate balance between safeguarding freedom of expression and protecting communities from hate and violence. Her leadership and unwavering commitment to combating modern anti-Semitism were clearly evident, leaving attendees inspired by the scope and impact of her work.

The event welcomed an enthusiastic audience of engaged participants invested in the efforts or curb and address antisemitism in their community and country.

At the conclusion of the event, Elizabeth reflected on a unifying theme that resonated throughout the evening: to be a Jew is to be a fighter. She pointed to the different ways this spirit was embodied by those on stage; Stephan Goldin, a Lieutenant Colonel in the IDF, defending Israel’s security; Caroline Yadan, confronting antisemitism in France through legislation; and Jean-Philippe Lustyk, a renowned boxing expert and commentator, who has quite literally fought in the ring. Each, in their own arena, exemplifies strength, courage, and an enduring commitment to stand up for what matters.