EU declaration on antisemitism notes rise in anti-Jewish racism and calls for adoption of International Definition on Antisemitism and harsher penalties for hate by member states

The European Union approved a declaration on antisemitism this week calling on member states to adopt the International Definition of Antisemitism if they have not yet done so.

The declaration, which acknowledges concern about the rise in antisemitic incidents and hate crime in Europe, was made by the EU Council this week. The Council, which comprises Government ministers from each EU member state, is expected to adopt the declaration formally later this month.

The declaration expresses concern about the rise in antisemitic incidents and hate crime and the “resurgence of conspiracy myths” especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also condemns “any form of antisemitism, intolerance or racist hatred” as “incompatible with the values and aims” of the EU,” and calls for action to combat these issues, including “effective prosecution.”

It also states that “illegal hate speech and terrorist content online must be removed promptly and consistently by internet service providers.”

Concerns have been raised, however, regarding the omission from the declaration safeguards for Jewish religious practices, which have been repeatedly under pressure in member states over the years, including recently in Finland.

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