Among the Jewish people there are distinct communities based on ethnic divisions which have given rise to several Jewish organizations. Geography and the dispersal of Jews all over the world resulted in communities influenced by their natural, cultural and political environments. This can be seen by differences in language, food, rituals and religious practices of Jewish communities.

In history, the Jewish people are divided into two major groups: the Ashkenazim and the Sephardim. The Ashkenazim or “Germanic” and Sephardim or “Hispanic” groups were followed by the Mizrahim or “Eastern” Jews as a third major group. There are other smaller groups like the Georgian Jews, Mountain Jews, Romaniotes, Teimanim and African Jews although many of these are now extinct.  Different Jewish organizations have sprung up through the years to represent the interests of Jews belonging to one group or the other.

The Ashkenazi Jews compose between 70 – 80% of the Jewish people worldwide. Although the group was developed in Europe, massive migration to other parts of the world made it the majority in countries like Argentina and Brazil in South America, the United States, Canada, Australia and South Africa. In Panama and Venezuela, however, the Sephardim dominate the population of Jewish people. In France, they also outnumber the other groups because of the influx of Sephardi Jewish migrants from North Africa.

Aside from Jewish organizations that represent the major groups, there are organizations that represent special interests of the Jewish people. One of the best known of these is the Anti-Defamation League which is dedicated to fighting anti-Semitism around the world. Founded in 1913 to “stop the defamation of the Jewish people”, it has expanded its activities to combat all forms of bigotry, extremism and racism.

Another high-profile Jewish organization is the B’nai B’rith which is well-known as a humanitarian, human rights and advocacy body present in over 50 countries around the world. Operating through its centers, this organization addresses issues of anti-Semitism and is active in programs for senior citizens. It also promotes the identity of the Jewish people through cultural activities.

Aside from these, there are Jewish organizations for women, children, lesbians, gays and bisexuals,  singles, immigrants and Jewish people involved with different political parties. Jewish organizations with even more focused interests advocate causes like the preservation of firearms ownership, peace   activism, ecology and nature, cancer victims, war veterans, alcoholics and drug addicts, medical practice and many more.

All told, there are Jewish organizations that represent almost every aspect of life of the Jewish people, helping them preserve their identity and protecting their interests.