Ireland may adopt working definition of antisemitism

Ireland has signed up to the IHRA, an intergovernmental organisation that brings together governments and experts to share best practice and promote "historically informed policy-making", since 2011, but has not implemented its definition of antisemitism. 

In 2022, Equality Minister Roderic O'Gorman said in a parliamentary reply that Ireland was supportive of the definition but "did not consider the illustrative examples that followed to be an integral part of the definition".

According to the IHRA: “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 definition adds, however, that this "might include the targeting of the state of Israel, conceived as a Jewish collectivity".

"However, criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country cannot be regarded as antisemitic. 

"Antisemitism frequently charges Jews with conspiring to harm humanity, and it is often used to blame Jews for 'why things go wrong'.

"It is expressed in speech, writing, visual forms and action, and employs sinister stereotypes and negative character traits."

Asked whether Ireland is planning on adopting the definition, the Department of Equality said that it will.

"The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth works to address antisemitism as part of its implementation of the National Action Plan against Racism (NAPAR). 

"This plan takes a comprehensive approach to addressing all forms of racism in Ireland, including antisemitism and anti-Muslim prejudice."

The department said it recently awarded a grant to the Jewish Representative Council of Ireland to assist in its efforts to counteract online antisemitism by achieving trusted flagger status under the EU Digital Services Act.

"Ireland now has stronger legal protections against antisemitism and other forms of racism. 

"The Criminal Justice (Hate Offences) Act 2024 provides for increased prison terms for crimes such as assault that are motivated by racism, antisemitism or other forms of hate.

"It is intended that the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism will be considered as part of the implementation of the NAPAR in the coming years."

Jewish Representative Council of Ireland chairperson Maurice Cohen told the Irish Examiner that the intention from the department is welcome, but concrete action is needed.

"However, 'intention' without a clear timeline leaves room for uncertainty. 

"Given the rise in antisemitic incidents globally and here at home, it is imperative that Ireland demonstrates its willingness to tackle and outlaw antisemitism by embedding the IHRA definition into everyday policy without delay.

"Strengthening legal protections, as outlined in the Criminal Justice (Hate Offences) Act 2024, is commendable, but comprehensive measures require proactive alignment with international standards like the IHRA definition to address antisemitism effectively and unequivocally."

In his criticism of Ireland, Mr Sa'ar accused Taoiseach Simon Harris of antisemitism, a charge the Taoiseach did not respond to.