Jewish Councils

Jewish Councils, often referred to as Jewish Councils or Judenräte, were administrative bodies composed of Jewish leaders established during the Nazi occupation in Europe during World War II. Their primary function was to liaise between occupying authorities and Jewish communities, handling issues like distribution of food, labor assignments, and the organization of deportations. While some councils tried to protect their communities, they faced ethical dilemmas and pressures from the Nazis, leading to complex choices under extreme circumstances. Some were seen as collaborators, while others were viewed as acting in the community's best interests.