CAA publishes lawyers’ opinion endorsing the International Definition of Antisemitism, including for further adoption by public bodies
Campaign Against Antisemitism has today published the opinion of expert counsel on the adoption of the International Definition of Antisemitism. The definition, which was adopted by the British government in December, following campaigning by Campaign Against Antisemitism, Sir Eric Pickles and others, has become a vital tool in the fight against antisemitism.
David Wolfson QC and Jeremy Brier, who acted for Campaign Against Antisemitism pro bono, drew up the nine-page opinion which includes a detailed assessment of the definition itself, considers the application of the definition in difficult cases, and contains useful advice for politicians and public bodies (such as universities) which are considering using the definition.
The opinion finds that “The Definition is a clear, meaningful and workable definition” and that it “should be used by public bodies on the basis that it will ensure that the identification of antisemitism is clear, fair and accurate.”
Since the government adopted the definition, we have seen disturbing efforts to attack its legitimacy by far-left elements within constituency branches of the Labour Party and the University and College Union. This opinion makes clear the baseless nature of such attacks.
We have now circulated the opinion to all universities, and we are writing to all MPs to draw it to their attention.
We are extremely grateful to David Wolfson QC and Jeremy Brier for providing this valuable tool which clearly sets out the legal position with regard to the definition.
