Italy’s Antisemitism Bill Adopts IHRA Definition, Draws Protests and Free Speech Concerns

Italy’s Senate has already approved a bill called “Disposizioni per il contrasto all’antisemitismo,” which aims to combat antisemitism by incorporating the 2016 IHRA working definition, according to a report from counterpunch.org. That report says the bill passed the Senate by a significant majority and is set for a vote in the Chamber on October 2.

Ynet (ynet.co.il) reports that the Italian Parliament is set to vote on a bill to define antisemitism within the legal framework, and that the proposal has ignited significant debate within the country’s political left. Supporters, according to that report, argue that clear legal definitions are necessary to combat hate crimes effectively.

Critics have raised several objections. The counterpunch.org report says principal IHRA drafter Kenneth Stern cautioned against adopting the definition legally, and that critics argue the IHRA indicators concerning the State of Israel could conflate criticism of Israel with antisemitism. Ynet reports that critics warn the bill could restrict freedom of expression and limit the ability to critique Israeli policies.

According to counterpunch.org, protests have emerged across Italy, with demonstrators saying that criticism of Israel should not be equated with antisemitism. The same report describes the bill’s provisions: training across institutions, monitoring of online platforms, a national coordinator, and a fund of ten million euros annually. It also states that the bill contains no new prison terms, but critics warn of denied event venues and career impacts.

Ynet reports that opposition to the bill has been notable within the Democratic Party, and that some Jewish members of the Democratic Party have expressed reservations about the legislation. Jewish community leaders in Italy, the report says, have voiced apprehension over the potential consequences of the proposed law.

Religious and political leaders, Ynet reports, have called for a balanced approach that protects Jewish communities and democratic freedoms, a call for fair dealing that echoes the duty to avoid bending justice toward either side (Exodus 23:1).