The World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ) is the global network for Reform, Liberal, Progressive, and Reconstructionist Jewish movements. Founded in 1926 and now headquartered in Jerusalem, it connects over 1.8 million members in 1,250+ congregations across 50+ countries. WUPJ promotes inclusive Judaism, supporting gender and LGBTQ+ equality, and emphasizing values like justice and peace.

The history of the WUPJ is the story of a global hub.

Across continents and cultures, Progressive Jewish communities have grown, adapted, and stayed connected through shared values of pluralism, learning, and community.

The Story of our
Global Progressive Hub

From its founding to its present-day global reach, the WUPJ has helped strengthen Progressive Jewish life by building connections between communities, supporting leadership, and creating spaces for Jewish expression in changing times.

1926 — A global movement begins
The WUPJ is founded, connecting emerging Progressive Jewish communities worldwide.

1940s — Holocaust and establishment of the State of Israel
After the Holocaust, communities rebuild and reimagine Jewish life.

1970s — Development in Israel
The movement grows in Israel, strengthening a pluralistic Jewish presence.

1990s — Renewal in Eastern Europe
Return to Eastern Europe, Tamar Olami Founded

2010s — A truly global network
Progressive Judaism is present across six continents.

1930s — First conferences and leadership
The movement grows across Europe, the UK, and the Americas.

1950s–1960s — Growth
Growth in the Americas, Establishing communities in Israel

1980s — Global connections , our Home and Youth
Netzer Olami Founded, Affiliation with the National Institutions and Beit Shmuel was funded

2000s — New growth worldwide
Establishment of Center for Education and Leadership Development and seminars

Today — A living global movement
A global hub for Progressive Judaism worldwide: connecting communities, amplifying voices, and advancing education, leadership, and innovation globally.

Our Mission

The World Union for Progressive Judaism serves as a hub that connects Reform, Liberal, Progressive, and Reconstructionist Judaism around the world while upholding the State of Israel as the center of the Jewish people and Jewish identity; supports communities, institutions and individuals in all stages of life for the continuity of Judaism and for tikkun olam; and provides innovative platforms and tools to advance Progressive/ Reform Jewish values and to develop the global Progressive/Reform lay and youth leadership of the Jewish people.

Our Vision

The WUPJ endeavors to ensure the existence of Progressive/Reform Jewish communities and institutions with strong leadership in every place that Jews live that meet the educational and spiritual needs of diverse ages, beliefs and practices and that actively engage in Tikkun Olam to bring about justice and compassion for all creation. The WUPJ aspires to imbue a sense of belonging to a global Progressive/Reform Jewish family and to be a thought-leader in matters of international Jewish importance.

Tell us about your connection to WUPJ

If you prefer, you can send an email to media@wupj.org

"The World Union for Progressive Judaism is the global hub for an inclusive, values-driven Judaism that speaks to both heart and mind. As a network of like-minded Jews, the WUPJ serves as a dynamic center for innovation, dialogue, and spiritual engagement across borders and generations".

Rabbi Sergio Bergman,
President of WUPJ.