The contours of the first European strategy “on combating antisemitism and fostering Jewish life in the EU” are taking shape: the Commission unveiled its roadmap on the subject on Monday 7 June, confirming the publication of the strategy for the fourth quarter of 2021.
This strategy will have to meet three main objectives, the institution explains. First of all, it will be necessary to prevent and combat all forms of antisemitism (see EUROPE 12734/25, 12424/10). A 2018 survey by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights found that 89% of European Jews believe that antisemitism has increased in their country. It also stated that 40% of them fear being physically attacked.
The strategy should contribute to protecting and fostering Jewish life in the EU, “in order to promote the respect of the diversity and give greater visibility to the Jewish communities”, and to ensuring the remembrance of the victims of the Shoah, and education on antisemitism.
As the Commission has little scope for action on all these issues, it should promote funding programmes, exchanges of good practice, awareness-raising and research as means of action.
It will certainly support the mainstreaming of the fight against antisemitism in all relevant policy areas and initiatives (combatting disinformation, hate crimes and hate speech, inclusion, employment, etc.)
Furthermore, it should call for improved data collection on antisemitism (see EUROPE 12557/27) and try to address the security concerns of Jewish communities.
The Commission offers assurances that this strategy will be drafted after consultation with Member States, the European Parliament, Jewish communities, civil society organisations and various stakeholders such as the Group of Special Envoys and Coordinators on antisemitism (SECCA) or the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA). Its roadmap is open for public comment until 5 July.
To consult it: https://bit.ly/3cr4StU (Original version in French by Agathe Cherki)