HIAS’ seventh annual Refugee Shabbat, which will take place on February 28 – March 1, 2025, is an opportunity to join the global Jewish movement for refugee solidarity and welcome. HIAS+JCORE is proud to be coordinating Refugee Shabbat in the UK and is delighted to invite you to join us.

This Refugee Shabbat comes at a critical moment: the number of forcibly displaced people worldwide has grown to a record 120 million – all while many governments show increasing hostility to those seeking safety. With refugee rights under attack, and the growing impact of climate change already exacerbating the effects of violence and conflict, this is a critical time to learn and take action.

By signing up, you’ll be standing with Jewish communities, organisations, and individuals from around the world, showing your support for refugees and people seeking asylum. Complete the form at the bottom of this page to register.

There’s lots of different ways to get involved with this year’s Refugee Shabbat! From running a week of activism or awareness on refugee issues, to joining with other congregations, groups, and faith communities to learn and take action together, or using this moment to explore connections between Jewish values and supporting displaced people, there are many options for your participation.

HIAS+JCORE will be facilitating events with communities and groups across the UK. Our team are available to speak at your synagogue or community group – or we can put you in contact with local groups who share our vision and commitment to welcoming displaced people. Resources are also available for Rabbis and congregations who would like to run independent events.

Watch this space for details of a national event you can sign up to soon.

After registering, you’ll receive access to HIAS+JCORE’s Refugee Shabbat 2025 resource. This covers all of the latest statistics (both from the UK and globally), related Jewish thought and teaching, and a series of discussion starters to enhance your event.