What is antisemtism

In recent weeks, I’ve had various private conversations asking about what antisemitism is.

The leading definition is this, published by the International Holocaust Remembrance Association (IHRA). It is important to highlight that the definition isn’t just the paragraph I’ve quoted below, but the entirety of the page it comes from, which includes context and examples:

“Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”

International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance Working Definition of Antisemitism

The IHRA is dedicated to focusing solely on Holocaust-related issues, and it has played a pivotal role in combating the rise of antisemitism. To effectively tackle this issue, the IHRA’s Committee on Antisemitism and Holocaust Denial formulated a non-legally binding working definition of antisemitism. This definition serves as a critical tool for people to address antisemitism by firstly identifying what it is. The definition also includes specific examples and illustrations of antisemitic acts and discrimination.

Key aspects of the definition include recognising antisemitism as a perception of Jews that may manifest as hatred, and it can target individuals, property, institutions, and religious facilities. It highlights that criticism of Israel similar to that levelled against other countries is not antisemitic, but antisemitism often involves conspiracy theories against Jews and blames them for societal issues. Examples of antisemitism include obviously calling for harm to Jews, making dehumanising allegations, denying the Holocaust, accusing Jews of greater loyalty to Israel, and applying double standards to Israel.

The IHRA also addresses Holocaust distortion and provides resources and tools for education and involvement in countering this issue. The working definition has been adopted at national and international levels, offering anyone a practical framework to understand and combat antisemitism effectively.