The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission (ADC) has welcomed the adoption by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, an intergovernmental organisation made up of 31 member nations, of a broader and more extensive definition of anti-Semitism. The decision was made during the organisation’s plenary meeting in Bucharest. The definition is based on the 2005 European Monitoring Centre (EUMC) Working Definition. The definition offers a number of examples, including “accusing Jews as a people of being responsible for real or imagined wrongdoing committed by a single Jewish person or group of Jews” and “accusing Jewish citizens of being more loyal to Israel … than to the interests of their own nations”. Chair Constantinescu observed that, “By adopting this working definition, the IHRA is setting an example of responsible conduct for other international fora and hopes to inspire them also to take action on a legally binding working definition
Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the ADC, issued the following statement:
“This is a very welcomed decision that will aid in clarifying the various manifestations of anti-Semitism to those involved in the fight against this scourge, especially law enforcement officers and judges, across many countries. It offers a wide-ranging and clear elucidation and description of anti-Semitism, including Holocaust denial, anti-Zionism and applying double standards to Israel, and is an important step in the battle to counter anti-Semitism internationally. In order to fight the growing problem of Jewish-hatred, we must have clarity about its various expressions, and praise must go to Romanian President Klaus Iohannis and Ambassador Mihnea Constantinescu, the IHRA chair, for spearheading this move.“
The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission, founded in 1979, is Australia’s leading organization fighting racism through educational programs that combat bigotry, prejudice and all forms of hatred.
For further information please contact Dr Dvir Abramovich on 03 9272 5677