The University has adopted the International Definition of Antisemitism in full, including all of its examples. The University simultaneously adopted the Jerusalem Declaration on Antisemitism, which is a wrecking document designed to undermine the International Definition of Antisemitism. Accordingly, an institution that adopts the Jerusalem Declaration cannot be said to have adopted the International Definition of Antisemitism.
The Definition was adopted on 25th June 2021.
The University has told Campaign Against Antisemitism: “At the meeting of Friday 25th June 2021, Council… approved adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism, [sic]. They also approved usage of the Jerusalem Declaration on Antisemitism to support with interpretation after feedback from staff, students, Senate and wider legal advice.”
This information was obtained after Campaign Against Antisemitism submitted a request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 on 14th July 2020. On 30th December 2020, the University responded. On 5th July 2021, the University updated its response.
Additionally, the University published a statement on its website on 30th June 2021.
When asked on 9th August 2020, University of Kent Students’ Union failed to confirm whether it has adopted the International Definition of Antisemitism.
The following are recent incidents that 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.
University of Kent undermined purported adoption of International Definition of Antisemitism by also adopting controversial Jerusalem Declaration.
University of Kent refused to take action over “Elders of Zion” conspiracy speaker because she is “a bona fide journalist”.
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.