First World Congress of Jewish Women

[2] Interest in international activities grew out of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) which was established in the United States at the end of the 19th century.

[3] It was therefore decided to bring together Jewish women from many different countries to a conference in May 1923 where they could "consider problems created by the war and lay constructive plans for working together".

Held in the impressive premises of the Hofburg, the opening session was also attended by many illustrious local figures, including the Austrian president Michael Hainisch, the mayor of Vienna, the chief of police, as well as writers and politicians.

[7] The five main topics discussed over the conference's six day programme included "the duties of the Jewish woman within the community, the problem of refugees and orphans, the situation of homeless girls, aid for emigration, and support for Palestine.

While there was no support for political action, it was suggested that, in line with the Balfour Declaration, Zionism could serve as a practical means of dealing with the suffering experienced by the Jews.