logo greek presidency of IHRA 2021

IHRA Chair’s statement on recent escalation of Antisemitic violence and hate speech

“We strongly condemn the Αntisemitic violence and hate speech that has taken place in response to the recent escalation of violence in the Middle East. While freedoms of speech and protest are essential pillars of all democracies, nothing can justify hate speech. We must unequivocally oppose all attacks targeting Jewish places of worship as well as Αntisemitic rhetoric, including holding Jews collectively responsible for events now developing in the Middle East. In a world where antisemitism is on the rise, we must stand together and clearly denounce this as an attack on the cornerstones of a free and democratic society. We call on the relevant authorities to ensure the protection of Jews and of Jewish places of worship against violence and hate speech.”