The University does not appear to have adopted the International Definition of Antisemitism.
The University has told Campaign Against Antisemitism that: “ The definition was adopted in September 2020…but that the examples were excluded but may be considered”.
This information was obtained after Campaign Against Antisemitism submitted a request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 on 8th July 2020. On 5th August 2020, the University responded. On 21st October 2021, the University updated its response.
Additionally, the University published a statement on its website on an unknown date in 2021. In the statement, the University confirmed that: “DMU has not incorporated the examples which are outlined by the IHRA as we share the concerns raised among Jewish scholars around potential limitations on freedom of speech and the interaction with academic freedom, particularly around discourse focusing on the state of Israel. However, the university will take the examples into consideration where appropriate to do so. We will continue to consult with our Jewish staff, students and community on this.”
Campaign Against Antisemitism considers the examples to be integral to the Definition, without which an adoption is not complete. In a statement on 7th August 2018, the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance reiterated the integrality of the examples to the Definition.
When asked on 25th July 2020, De Montfort Students’ Union told Campaign Against Antisemitism that it had adopted the International Definition of Antisemitism in full, but did not provide evidence to support its claim.
No incidents have been reported to us, however we recognise that antisemitism is chronically underreported and it is possible that there are incidents that have not been reported. To report an incident, please contact us.
The incidence of antisemitism on a university campus and how the university and its students’ union address antisemitism are matters of serious concern. At the same time, they do not represent the totality of Jewish life on any campus. For further information about Jewish life on campus, please contact the local Jewish Society or Jewish chaplain.
No student should have to endure antisemitism. Campaign Against Antisemitism provides specialist help to students who have experienced antisemitism, including free legal representation. For assistance with antisemitism on campus, please contact us.