Italy, clash over antisemitism law: where the fight against hatred ends and criticism of Israel begins

Italy’s Parliament has begun examining a bill aimed at incorporating into national legislation the definition of antisemitism developed by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA).

The initiative has sparked fierce political clashes and divisions within Italy’s Jewish community. The objections mainly concern fears that some of the examples included in the definition could blur the distinction between antisemitism, criticism of Israel and the exercise of freedom of expression.

The main focus of the debate is the bill’s first article. It includes the IHRA definition, adopted in 2016, as well as a list of examples intended to guide its practical application.

Particularly controversial is the example comparing Israel’s policies with those of Nazi Germany. Critics warn that such wording could be used to equate antisemitism with political opposition to the Israeli government.

The proposed text, however, stipulates that the law does not affect political criticism or freedom of expression.

The bill is opposed by the anti-racist Jewish group Laboratorio Ebraico Antirasista. According to LEA, its adoption would legitimize a problematic definition and create opportunities for political opponents to be discredited through accusations of antisemitism.

LEA is one of the signatories of a public appeal published in the newspaper Manifesto by Jewish organizations and figures. The document argues that the IHRA definition does not clearly distinguish hatred of Jews from political positions related to Israel.

Mario Venezia, president of the Museo della Shoah foundation, which runs the Holocaust Museum in Rome, holds the opposite position. He says the definition does not prohibit criticism of Israel and notes that there is also strong opposition to government policies within Israeli society.

Venezia considers the bill an additional tool in the fight against antisemitism. He also emphasizes that the initiative does not provide for sanctions or punitive measures for violations, meaning its impact will be primarily cultural.

The initiative has the support of the center-right governing coalition, while the opposition parties do not have a unified position.

The Democratic Party, the largest center-left opposition party, did not take part in the vote held by the parliamentary committee. It is calling for an amendment to be added to the bill clearly stating that criticism of Israel’s policies does not constitute antisemitism.

The debate is expected to continue throughout the parliamentary process. The issue has reopened discussion in Italy about how antisemitism can be fought while guaranteeing freedom of expression and room for political debate.