NEWS Italy adopts IHRA Definition of Anti-Semitism

By Pagine Ebraiche staff

Last week the Italian government approved the operational definition of anti-Semitism formulated by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance. The move marks a turning point that aligns Italy with other European countries and that comes together with the formalization of the appointment of Professor Milena Santerini as national coordinator against anti-Semitism.

The request to adopt the definition had been repeatedly formulated by the Union of Italian Jewish Communities.

“The Italian government – commented UCEI President Noemi Di Segni – is writing a fundamental page in the fight against anti-Jewish hatred in all its forms, including the particularly insidious one of those who undermine Israel’s right to exist and defend itself. The gap is finally filled, as already it was done by other European countries, on the basis of the resolution of the European Parliament and the most recent and unanimous decision of the Council of Europe. Today is an important day that will mark the beginning of a process of further technical and legal examination and sharing with other institutions in the country.”

“Anti-Semitism – reads the note released by the government – is a certain perception of Jews that might be expressed as hatred towards them. The rhetorical and physical manifestations of anti-Semitism are directed towards Jewish, or non-Jewish, people and / or their property, the institutions of the Jewish communities and their places of worship.”