It was released today "Handbook on the practical application of the IHRA Definition of Anti-Semitism" (Handbook for the practical use of the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism). The book presents the non-legally binding Definition of Anti-Semitism as adopted by the IHRA, together with the illustrative examples it includes, relating them to 22 actual incidents and crimes of anti-Semitism, which have occurred in various European countries in recent years. In addition, the handbook lists 35 examples of 'good practice' adopted by law enforcement, the judiciary, education, government initiatives, the world of sport and civil society, where the implementation of the Definition has paid off positively.The handbook also offers a functional checklist for using the Definition in different policy areas.
The recording of 'good practices' was based on data for 71 cases from the 27 EU member countries. and the United Kingdom, collected from different sources, using a questionnaire distributed between 9 July and 20 August 2020. 22 countries reported adopting the Definition and 20 countries reported using it in practice.
The book was prepared by the Federal Association of Agencies for Research and Information on Anti-Semitism (RIAS) of Germany, following a relevant commission from the European Commission, and published jointly with the IHRA, with the support of the German Presidency of the Council of the European Union .
The first presentation of the manual took place on 8.12.20, in the context of the online 4th Meeting of the European Commission to combat anti-Semitism.
The two main objectives of the manual are: 1) to explain and capture the Definition of Anti-Semitism and 2) to record good practices of its use across the EU.
With their statements, the publication was welcomed by:
-Benjamin Steinitz, executive director of RIAS: The Definition is essential to society's efforts to combat anti-Semitism as it describes all the different aspects of anti-Semitism as it is expressed today, including those forms that target Israel as a Jewish collective. Consistent use of this Definition in police and judicial training, as well as in the training of educators and public officials, will improve understanding and sensitivity to current expressions of anti-Semitism and ensure a common frame of reference.
-Katharina from Schnurbein, European Commission Coordinator for the fight against anti-Semitism: In a very practical way, this manual will help government agencies and social agencies in preventing and dealing with anti-Semitic incidents, in supporting the victims. It will also promote data collection and improve information.
-Felix Klein, Federal Commissioner for Jewish Life in Germany and the Fight Against Anti-Semitism: After intensive preparation the manual is ready for use. Clarifying and explaining the use of the Definition gives it new genuine value. I am pleased that this user manual will make it easier to apply the Definition.
View here the manual
Source: European Commission website, 8.1.2021