UK Highlights Urgent Need to Combat Antisemitism
The United Kingdom has voiced deep concern regarding the persistent rise of antisemitism across the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) region. This urgent message was delivered during the OSCE Conference on Combating Antisemitism: Addressing Challenges of Intolerance and Discrimination, held in St. Gallen, Switzerland, from February 9-10, 2026.
The UK emphasized that antisemitism is not merely an attack on Jewish communities but also a direct threat to the foundational principles of stable and inclusive societies, deeming it a 'collective security issue'.
Conference Addresses Global Surge in Antisemitic Incidents
The conference, organized by the Swiss Chairpersonship as the first of several international events for its 2026 OSCE Chairmanship, aimed to analyze current trends, strengthen cooperation among participating states and civil society, and translate existing commitments into tangible actions.
During the proceedings, the UK highlighted recent disturbing incidents, including the attack on the Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester on Yom Kippur and an assault during a Chanukah celebration in Sydney, as stark reminders of the 'real, immediate, and deeply felt' threats faced by Jewish communities.
OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, opened the two-day event, noting that antisemitic attacks are increasing globally, a trend exacerbated by international developments such as the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent conflict in Gaza.
Calls for Concrete Steps and International Cooperation
In its statement, the UK urged all OSCE participating States to take concrete steps to protect Jewish communities. Key recommendations included:
- Adopting and operationalizing the Global Guidelines for Countering Antisemitism.
- Implementing the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism.
- Addressing the root causes of antisemitism and strengthening the social fabric to foster resilience.
The UK also underscored the role of its Online Safety Act in placing strong duties on social media platforms to combat illegal content, including hate speech. The conference discussions also focused on preventive approaches, particularly among young people exposed to online violence, and the role of sport in combating hatred and discrimination.
Commitment to a Future Free from Hatred
The UK reiterated its commitment to working with OSCE partners to ensure that 'hatred has no place in our societies'. The conference served as a critical platform for reaffirming the collective responsibility to confront antisemitism and promote inclusive societies that uphold freedom of religion or belief for all.
6 Comments
Bermudez
It's essential to combat all forms of hate speech and protect communities, but relying heavily on online safety legislation could inadvertently lead to overreach and stifle important free speech.
Africa
The call for international cooperation is commendable, as antisemitism is a global problem. However, true progress requires a deeper look at the geopolitical factors fueling tensions, not just surface-level commitments.
Coccinella
Focusing solely on antisemitism ignores other forms of bigotry. It's selective outrage.
ZmeeLove
While it's vital to address the alarming rise of antisemitism, the emphasis on certain incidents and definitions might overshadow the need for comprehensive education and social cohesion efforts that tackle all forms of discrimination.
Mariposa
Another conference, same old rhetoric. When will we see real change?
Bella Ciao
While the rise in antisemitism is deeply troubling and needs addressing, the broad application of the IHRA definition risks conflating anti-Zionism with antisemitism, which can hinder open discussion.