Applied Research

The complexity of contemporary Jewish life can only be captured by accessing a variety of perspectives and utilizing different methodological approaches. JDC-ICCD’s projects incorporate data gathered from communal leaders to the unaffiliated and employ a wide range of both qualitative and quantitative methodological approaches. Our current research initiatives are designed to yield significant insights into particular regions, populations and/or area of activity and to generate a fuller picture of key trends and opportunities for policy intervention.

Two large-scale research initiatives were launched in September 2008. The first is our European Jewish Leaders Survey. Incorporating the views of over 250 top decision-makers and opinion-shapers from 31 countries, this project investigated current outlooks on a range of European and communal issues and examined priorities for the next decade of organized Jewish life. Results can be found here.

The second major initiative is Identity á la Carte, an in-depth study of the beliefs, attitudes and behaviours of young and middle generation East European Jews. Field research is currently underway in nine key cities. Initial results will be available in the summer of 2009.

JDC-ICCD will shortly also begin work on a series of case studies of Jewish activity taking place outside mainstream institutions. Judaism Without Walls will examine a growing number of intriguing grass roots Jewish initiatives that are reaching marginally-engaged and peripheral populations, and explore the reasons for their success. Judaism Without Walls will also pilot a new multi-media approach to research data, publishing its findings in a range of modes: written text, visual image and movie footage.