EU foreign ministers approve declaration on fostering Jewish life, combating antisemitism

Meeting on October 15, European Union foreign ministers approved a declaration on fostering Jewish life and combating antisemitism, a statement by the Council of the EU said.

The declaration highlights alarmingly high levels of antisemitism across the EU and emphasises that the EU stands unequivocally against all forms of antisemitism, racism, hatred, and discrimination, the statement said.

“The Council calls in the strongest possible terms for further action to combat these phenomena,” it said.

Among the specific areas, the declaration underscores the importance of combating all forms of antisemitic hate speech, including Holocaust denial and trivialisation.

“These growing trends, especially online, harm Jewish communities, undermine collective historical memory, and threaten the cohesion and security of European democratic societies.”

The declaration also emphasises the need to foster Jewish life through culture, education and Holocaust remembrance as key elements for promoting tolerance, mutual understanding, cultural heritage and intercultural dialogue.

Another important priority is to ensure the safety of Jewish people and the security of Jewish premises and institutions, as well as to support and protect the victims of all forms of antisemitism, racism and all other forms of hatred.

The Council of the EU called on EU member states, the European Commission, the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights, and the EU Agency for Law Enforcement Training to continue and intensify their efforts to combat antisemitism and foster Jewish life in their respective areas of competence.

(Photo: Clive Leviev-Sawyer)

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