Antisemitism

Antisemitism has existed for over 2000 years and has been apparent in many historical periods, particularly in Europe. Antisemitism (also Judeophobia) is the term for the categorical rejection of Jews and Judaism. It can manifest itself in opinions, ideologies and symbols, and can lead to acts of social or legal discrimination and various forms of violence.

The most radical manifestation of antisemitism was the Holocaust with its declared aim of eliminating the physical presence of all Jews, leading to the systematic murder of six million Jews. However, antisemitism itself has by no means disappeared since the end of the Second World War. Instead, it persists as a latent undercurrent in society and often remerges in times of crisis.

The SIG uses the EUMC working definition of antisemitism, as do most other Jewish organisation.

“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.”

The full definition has the significant advantage of explaining the difference between (legitimate) critic of the State of Israel and antisemitism.