The World Jewish Congress is a global voluntary association of Jewish groups, communities and organizations, created to “foster the unity and creative survival of the Jewish people” (Articles 1 and 2 of the Charter). The World Jewish Congress (WJC) unites the largest Jewish organizations in over 60 countries (1969). WJC was established in 1936 in Geneva under the leadership of Stephen S. Wise and Nahum Goldmann. Te first plenary sessions were attended by 280 delegates from 32 countries.

After WWII, the WJC was instrumental in developing a post-war policy for Jews worldwide in restoring Jewish life. The WJC campaigned actively for the demands of Jews to be taken into account when signing peace treaties, for the Nazi criminals to be brought to justice, and for compensation and reparations to be paid to victims of Nazism (see German reparations).

The WJC represents the interests of Jews at a number of international organizations (UN, UNESCO, regional organizations, etc.). Viewing the struggle against anti-Semitism as one of its overriding goals, the WJC is advocating support for Jews persecuted in any regions, acting jointly with human rights organizations and non-Jewish religious organizations. The WJC is constantly campaigning for the development of Jewish culture and active efforts of Jewish cultural institutions, viewing it as the guarantee of survival of the Jewish national self-awareness. The WJC supervises the Institute of Jewish Affairs (London), which mainly addresses issues of the current status of the Jewish Diaspora and publishes monographs and periodicals. The supreme body of the WJC is the plenum. It is managed by the Executive Committee and the Management Board. The Executive Committee of the WJC is composed of four chapters – Jewish, North American, South American, and European.