EUROPEAN COMMISSION Strasbourg, 5.10.2021 COM(2021) 615 final COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT, THE COUNCIL, THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMITTEE AND THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS EU Strategy on Combating Antisemitism and Fostering Jewish Life (2021-2030)























‘Because antisemitism strikes at the heart of our values: humanity, religious freedom, equality. Antisemitism is a poison for our society. It is up to all of us to fight it. To prevent it. And to eradicate it.’ ― Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission Brussels, 3 February 2021 ‘The hate that begins with Jews never ends with Jews. We make a great mistake if we think antisemitism is a threat only to Jews. It is a threat, first and foremost, to Europe and to the freedoms it took centuries to achieve.’ ― Rabbi Jonathan Sacks European Parliament, 27 September 2016 TOWARDS AN EU FREE FROM ANTISEMITISM European Jews and Jewish communities have been contributing to the social, political, economic, scientific and cultural development of Europe for over two millennia and are an inextricable part of Europe’s identity. From Gustav Mahler to Sigmund Freud, Hannah Arendt and Simone Veil, Jewish people have enriched Europe’s cultural, intellectual and religious heritage. At the same time, antisemitism has been present in Europe for centuries, manifesting in the form of expulsions, persecutions and pogroms, which culminated in the Holocaust, an indelible stain on European history and erased Jewish life and heritage in many parts of the continent. The European Union has its historical roots in the Second World War and the unequivocal commitment of Europeans to ensure that such atrocities never happen again. However, antisemitism did not end with the Holocaust. Generations after the end of the Shoah, antisemitism is worryingly on the rise, in Europe and beyond. The European Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. It stands unequivocally against all forms of hatred and discrimination on any ground, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, age or disability. Antisemitism is incompatible with Europe’s core values. It represents a threat not only to Jewish communities and to Jewish life, but to an open and diverse society, to democracy and the European way of life. The European Union is determined to put an end to it. Every second European considers antisemitism as a problem. Nine out of ten Jews consider that antisemitism has increased in their country. 85% Jews consider antisemitism to be a serious problem. Contemporary antisemitism occurs in many forms, old and new: from online hate speech to hate crimes and attacks on Jewish people, their properties and institutions, to desecration of synagogues, cemeteries and memorials. It occurs in the daily lives of Jewish people in the form of casual remarks or actions at work, private conversations, in public places, in the media, sports and culture or when Jewish people are practicing their religion. Antisemitism manifests itself as racial, ethnic or religious discrimination, stereotyping and hatred of Jews and people perceived as Jewish. It can lead to violent and lethal attacks such as those on the Ozar Hatorah school in Toulouse in 2012, the Jewish Museum in Brussels in 2014, the Hypercasher in Paris in 2015, or on the Synagogue in Halle in 2019. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown how old antisemitic prejudices can resurge and fuel new conspiracy myths and hatred online and offline. Jewish people have been one of the most attacked communities during the pandemic; they have been unjustifiably blamed for creating the virus and for developing vaccines to make a profit. This is compounded by comparisons of pandemic measures with policies that led to the genocide of the Jewish people that minimise and trivialise the experiences of Holocaust victims and survivors. While hate speech and violence are easily identifiable, widespread ignorance and indifference in our society allows antisemitism to flourish and even grow, if left unaddressed. We all have a responsibility to continuously inform and educate the young and the old. This is especially true as the generations who experienced the Holocaust are almost gone, making it even more difficult to pass on the first-hand experience and the essential lessons to the next generations. Jewish life in the EU in the 21st century

Before the Second World War, an estimated 9.5 million Jewish people lived in Europe. Six million Jews were systematically murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators in the Holocaust. Nowadays, the Jewish population in the EU is estimated to be up to 1.5 million people. Today, Jewish life across Europe is vibrant again. Over the past decades, many European countries have witnessed a revival of Jewish life and culture. Jewish identity has been strengthened and is an integral part of European society. However, due to the increasing number of antisemitic attacks, fear among Jewish communities has also increased and further security measures for Jewish premises have been necessary. In recent years, the Jewish population in the EU has been declining, due in large part to migration to outside of the EU. This is linked to several factors, in particular to security concerns, as well as to the perceived lack of determination of some governments to address antisemitism and the politicisation of public debates around Jewish customs and traditions. Stepping up the fight against antisemitism For the past 20 years, antisemitism has been addressed as part of the European Union’s work tackling racism. Given the significant rise of antisemitism, the efforts in addressing it have accelerated in recent years and the fight against antisemitism has been brought to the forefront of the EU political agenda. In 2015, the European Commission appointed the first-ever Coordinator on combating antisemitism and fostering Jewish life. In June 2017, the European Parliament adopted a resolution on combating antisemitism and in December 2018, the Council adopted a Declaration on the fight against antisemitism. To support the implementation of the Declaration the Commission set up an ad-hoc Working Group on combating antisemitism, bringing together Member States and Jewish communities. In December 2019, the fight against antisemitism became part of the portfolio of the Commission Vice-President for Promoting our European Way of Life, signalling the intention to address it as a cross-cutting priority. In December 2020, the Council adopted a further Declaration centred on mainstreaming the fight against antisemitism across policy areas. This has been strengthened by the adoption of a series of strategies fostering a Union of Equality package through an intersectional lens. The persistence and increase of antisemitism requires a stronger response at EU level. With this strategy, the first of its kind, the Commission is determined to significantly step up the fight against antisemitism and help create an inclusive society based on equality and respect, to ensure a good perspective for the future of Jews in Europe. This strategy is based on a wide consultation of relevant stakeholders. The Commission invites EU institutions, Member States, international organisations and all civil society actors and citizens to commit to a future free from antisemitism in the EU and beyond. The Commission will engage in a regular dialogue with the European Parliament and with Member States’ national parliaments to encourage renewed action on combating antisemitism and fostering Jewish life. In full respect of national competences, this strategy sets out the policy framework for the Commission for the period 2021-2030 and aims to support and encourage cooperation between Member States and all stakeholders. Crucially, this strategy seeks to go beyond responding to antisemitism alone and step up action to actively prevent and combat it in all its forms and to ensure that Jewish life continues to thrive in an inclusive and diverse EU. The strategy comprises three pillars: 1 – Preventing and combating all forms of antisemitism 2 – Protecting and fostering Jewish life in the EU 3 – Education, research and Holocaust remembrance This strategy also seeks to place the EU firmly in the lead of the global fight against antisemitism, complementing measures within the EU with international efforts along all the three pillars. All forms of hatred undermine the value of a person and are incompatible with what the EU stands for. This strategy is part of the Commission’s efforts on combating all forms of hatred, discrimination and racism. It complements the EU anti-racism action plan 2020-2025, as racism can also be combined with discrimination and hatred on other grounds, including religion or belief. This needs to be taken into account through an intersectional approach to truly pave the way towards an EU free from antisemitism and fostering Jewish life in all of its diversity and achieve concrete improvements for the Jewish people and their future in Europe. In specific instances, this strategy will also take note of the commonalities between the experience of discrimination of Jewish people and other ethnic or religious minorities. I.PREVENTING AND COMBATING ALL FORMS OF ANTISEMITISM ‘Let us remember: what hurts the victim most is not the cruelty of the oppressor but the silence of the bystander.’ ― Elie Wiesel Contemporary antisemitism can be found in radical and fringe groups espousing right-wing, left-wing or Islamist extremism, it can hide behind anti-Zionism, but it can also be found in the centre of society. Antisemitic speech and behaviour can be open or veiled, conscious or unconscious. Antisemitism can take the form of illegal acts, which are punishable under EU and national law. Manifestations of antisemitism might include Israel-related antisemitism, the most common form of antisemitism encountered online by Jews in Europe today. Long-standing antisemitic conspiracy myths and disinformation, while not necessarily illegal, are harmful. They perpetuate prejudices and stereotypes and can lead to discrimination, marginalisation, radicalisation and hate crime. Since 2017, the Commission has been using the non-legally binding working definition of antisemitism of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA definition) as a practical guidance tool and a basis for its work to combat antisemitism. The IHRA definition is the benchmark for promoting a rights-based and victim-centred approach. In January 2021, the Commission in cooperation with the IHRA published the Handbook for the practical use of the IHRA working definition of antisemitism, which provides an overview of good practices from across Europe on the use of the definition by international organisations, national administrations, civil society and Jewish communities.

1.1.Fighting antisemitism across policy areas and mobilising EU funds Addressing antisemitism is a complex challenge. Its multi-faceted manifestations and its prevalence across the social and political spectrum call for a comprehensive response, ranging from a solid legal framework that is properly enforced, to security aspects, to education and inclusion policies, to name a few. The Commission will therefore take the fight against antisemitism systematically into consideration when developing policies, legislation and funding programmes, and invites other EU institutions to cooperate on strengthening mainstreaming tools and practices. In addition, Member States have already committed to prevent and fight all forms of antisemitism through new national strategies, or measures under existing national strategies and/or action plans on preventing racism, xenophobia, radicalisation and violent extremism. To have an impact, these strategies need to include targeted actions and be supported with the appropriate funding. The adoption of the IHRA definition and the appointment of special envoys or coordinators by all Member States are also necessary steps for effective action at national level. A reinforced involvement of civil society organisations and Jewish communities is key for the strategy to be successful. The Commission aims to enhance active cooperation with them and provide financial support for initiatives in all areas covered by the strategy. Targeted actions will be pursued through a wide variety of EU funding programmes, in particular, the citizens, equality, rights and values (CERV) programme, which with a budget of EUR 1.55 billion is the largest funding EU programme ever to promote fundamental rights. In addition, relevant actions will be supported through EU programmes such as the Justice programme, Horizon Europe, Creative Europe, Erasmus+, the Internal Security Fund, the cohesion policy funds, the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI), and the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA). Furthermore, through the Technical Support Instrument, the Commission can fund structural reforms in Member States, including on a multi-country basis, to enhance cooperation and build on best practices in the fight against discrimination and antisemitism. All Member States’ actions undertaken for the implementation of EU funds need to fully respect the principle of non-discrimination. In particular, the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU, which prohibits any discrimination based, among others, on racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, must be respected throughout the preparation, implementation, monitoring, reporting and evaluation of the programmes. In case of violation of EU anti-discrimination rules, including discrimination of Jewish people on the grounds of their religion or ethnicity, funding may be suspended. The Commission and the Member States monitor the respect of these rules for all EU-funded programmes. To support the implementation of this strategy and help coordinate Member States’ efforts the Commission will formalise the ad hoc Working Group on combating antisemitism as a permanent structure that brings together Member States, Jewish communities’ representatives and other stakeholders. The EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) will also support the EU and Member States with evidence, assistance and expertise when monitoring the implementation of this strategy and national strategies or action plans on combating antisemitism. Key actions: The Commission will: ·Organise an annual civil society forum on combating antisemitism, bringing together representatives from the Commission and Jewish communities, civil society and other stakeholders to create links and maximise the effect of joint actions and EU funding. ·Support Member States’ efforts in designing and implementing national strategies on combating antisemitism or discrimination, through the Technical Support Instrument and assess them by end 2023. Member States are encouraged to: ·Develop national strategies by end 2022 on combating antisemitism, or include measures in their national action plans against racism, and provide sufficient funding to implement them. ·Adopt and use the IHRA definition of antisemitism and encourage local authorities, regions, cities, and other institutions and organisations to do the same. ·Appoint special envoys/coordinators on combating antisemitism and fostering Jewish life. 1.2.Combating antisemitic hate speech and hate crime Jewish people are the main target of crimes committed on an antisemitic bias. However, rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism can be directed towards non-Jewish individuals as well. 71% of Jewish people who sometimes carry or display items that could identify them as Jewish avoid doing so at least occasionally. 44% of young Jewish Europeans have experienced antisemitic harassment. The EU Framework Decision on combating racism and xenophobia by means of criminal law provides a strong legal framework to combat antisemitic hate crimes and hate speech, including public condoning, denial or gross trivialisation of the Holocaust in a manner likely to incite to violence or hatred. Its full and correct transposition is a priority for the Commission. Law enforcement and the judiciary play a crucial role in effectively implementing legislation on hate speech and hate crime (including the Framework Decision) and safeguarding the rights of victims. To further strengthen the legal framework, in 2021 the Commission will introduce an initiative to extend the list of ‘EU crimes’ to cover hate crime and hate speech. The Commission supports Member States through the High Level Group on combating racism and xenophobia and other forms of intolerance and cooperates with the EU Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL), FRA, the European Judicial Training Network (EJTN), Member States and civil society organisations to develop training and capacity-building for law enforcement and the judiciary, improve hate crime recording and data collection, as well as to encourage victims to report hate crime and strengthen cooperation between law enforcement and Jewish communities. The EU strategy on victims’ rights (2020-2025) aims to ensure that victims of crime, including of antisemitic hate crimes, can fully rely on their rights and be protected against secondary victimisation. Support structures for victims of antisemitic incidents across Europe are often inadequate. Member States are encouraged to set up integrated and targeted specialist support services for the most vulnerable victims, including for victims of antisemitic hate crime. They should also ensure specific training on non-discrimination for police and others coming into contact with victims of antisemitic hate crime. The Commission will continue to monitor the implementation of the Victims’ Rights Directive, which ensures that all victims of crime have rights, including access to specialist support services and protection measures that correspond to their individual needs and vulnerability. With the European judicial training strategy for 2021-2024, the Commission supports the training of justice professionals to ensure that EU legislation is correctly applied and that professionals are equipped with the relevant skills. The Commission will also support the development of trainings as well as materials on antisemitism and make them available on the ‘European Training Platform’ of the European e-Justice Portal. With the EU Strategy on the rights of the child, the Commission aims to mainstream children’s rights across EU policies, to better protect children who are victims of discrimination, including based on religion or belief. Reliable and comparable data on antisemitic incidents are crucial to assess the spread of antisemitism in Europe and to tackle it effectively. Recording of reported incidents is often inconsistent as Member States use different methodologies and data can therefore not be compared. Within the High Level Group on combating racism and xenophobia, the FRA will help Member States improve and align their methodologies for recording and collecting data on hate crime, including on antisemitism. Underreporting is a challenge: 79% of Jewish people surveyed did not report their most serious antisemitic incident to any organisation. In this regard, Member States should make it easier for victims of antisemitic hate crime and hates speech to report incidents, offering a variety of channels, so as to increase the level of reporting and improve the recording of such incidents. Key actions:

The Commission will: ·Support organisations and projects to combat and record antisemitic hate speech and hate crime through the CERV programme. ·Assist Member States in ensuring that integrated and targeted support services are available and accessible to victims of antisemitic hate crime, including through EU funding. ·Enhance support to training programmes and capacity-building activities on tackling antisemitism for justice and law enforcement professionals, including through the European Judicial Training Network (EJTN) and the EU Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL). Members States are encouraged to: ·Swiftly complete the transposition and implementation of the Framework Decision on combating racism and xenophobia and prosecute antisemitic hate speech and hate crime in line with EU and national legislation. ·Closely coordinate with the EJTN and CEPOL and cooperate with civil society organisations on training activities to tackle antisemitism. 1.3.Tackling antisemitism online Antisemitism is widespread online and can lead to radicalisation and physical attacks. Antisemitic speech – both online and offline – that incites violence and hatred is criminalised under the Framework Decision on combating racism and xenophobia. Antisemitic stereotypes, conspiracy myths and disinformation, although not necessarily illegal, are harmful. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, antisemitism on the internet has risen sharply. To tackle this problem effectively, more information is needed on how antisemitic content travels online and on the backgrounds and motivations of those sharing such content. New and innovative methods to address discrimination and antisemitic cyberhate also need to be found. Nazi-related symbols, memorabilia and literature as well as contemporary permutations of them are easily accessible online. Displaying and selling such products may constitute hate speech under national laws implementing the Framework Decision when publicly inciting hatred and violence. However, even if this is not the case, such online availability may perpetuate Nazi ideology and stimulate an antisemitic subcultures. Dialogue with industry and IT companies needs to be strengthened, building on the experience of the Code of Conduct on countering illegal hate speech online, to ensure their cooperation in avoiding the display and/or sale of such items. The Audiovisual Media Services Directive stipulates that Member States ensure that video-sharing platform providers take appropriate measures to protect the general public from audiovisual content and from commercial communications containing incitement to violence or hatred, including antisemitic content. The proposal for a Digital Services Act sets out clear, harmonised due-diligence obligations for online platforms, including notice-and-action procedures for illegal content and products, empowering users to report hate speech in an easy and effective way. In addition, with regard to very large online platforms, the proposal focuses on addressing remaining gaps that allow for illegal and harmful behaviours online, in particular against vulnerable groups. The Code of conduct on countering illegal hate speech online is a voluntary collaboration between the Commission and IT companies to prevent the spread of illegal - including antisemitic hate speech. To facilitate integrated action by EU Member States targeting groups and individuals spreading hate and terrorist content online, Europol coordinates European-wide action days targeting online racist and xenophobic hate speech and online terrorist and violent extremist content, including antisemitic content. Under the action plan on disinformation and the European democracy action plan the Commission and the EEAS will continue to pay specific attention to analysing and responding to campaigns of disinformation, hate speech, incitement to violence and extremist rhetoric, including through the EEAS East StratCom Task Force. In addition, the Code of Practice on Disinformation is being strengthened, also contributing to better fighting antisemitism online. Civil society organisations work closely with the Commission and online platforms to apply the Code of conduct and the Code of Practice. New technologies bring new opportunities to improve people’s lives, but can also exacerbate discrimination and amplify harmful content online, including antisemitic content. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act aims to prevent high-risk AI systems from propagating discrimination and bias, including antisemitic hatred. AI algorithms can also be used to reinforce positive messages and counter-narratives by bringing experts together to address antisemitism, conspiracy myths and Holocaust denial or distortion online. Key actions: The Commission will: ·Strengthen the fight against online antisemitism by supporting the establishment of a Europe-wide network of trusted flaggers and Jewish organisations, in line with the Code of conduct. It will also support the European Digital Media Observatory and its national hubs to increase the capacity of their fact-checkers on disinformation and will work with independent organisations to develop counter- narratives, including in non-EU languages. ·Organise a Hackathon to facilitate exchanges between experts to develop new innovative ways to address antisemitism in the online and digital environment. ·Cooperate with industry and IT companies to prevent the illegal display and sale of Nazi-related symbols, memorabilia and literature online. ·Conduct a comprehensive data analysis to better understand the spread of antisemitism online, how it travels and expands. ·Address antisemitic hate speech in the upcoming updated Better internet for kids strategy. Member States are encouraged to: ·Support, including financially, civil society organisations in combating antisemitic hate speech, disinformation and conspiracy myths online, in relevant languages. ·Strengthen the capacity of national law enforcement and judicial authorities to prosecute online hate speech. 1.4.Combating antisemitic discrimination Jewish people risk experiencing discrimination, in particular when they can be identified as being Jewish, i.e. by wearing a kippah or a Star of David necklace or when speaking openly about their Jewish identity. They may be at risk of discrimination when applying for a job or at work and in other areas such as education, health or housing. EU law prohibits discrimination based on racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, including antisemitism. In particular, the Racial Equality Directive offers protection for Jewish people against discrimination (including harassment) based on ‘racial or ethnic origin’ in certain areas of life and the Employment Equality Directive offers protection for Jewish people against discrimination or harassment on the grounds of religion or belief in the area of employment. National equality bodies promote, analyse, monitor and support equal treatment. By 2022, the Commission will propose new legislation to strengthen their role. Diversity Charters encourage organisations to develop and implement diversity and inclusion policies at the workplace. The EU Platform of Diversity Charters has been set up to allow existing charters to exchange and share experience and good practices. They should also systematically address the specific challenges of identifying and combating antisemitism at the workplace. Equality data relating to Jewish people are relatively scarce due to the sensitivity of collecting data based on racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, and because European Jews are a rather small group which leads to less available aggregated data from larger surveys. The EU High Level Group on Non-discrimination, Equality and Diversity, through a dedicated subgroup, supports Member States in gathering data to help analyse the state of equality, in full respect of fundamental rights. Furthermore, the Commission will carry out a series of actions to address racial and ethnic stereotypes with the media, civil society and representatives of people with a minority racial or ethnic background and will launch an action to ensure a consistent approach to equality data collection, in particular as regards data disaggregated by racial or ethnic origin. Key actions: The Commission will: ·Propose binding standards for national equality bodies by 2022 and cooperate with Equinet and equality bodies to increase their knowledge about antisemitism. ·Support Member States in designing and implementing reforms aimed at tackling discrimination in schools in general – and antisemitism in particular – within the Technical Support Instrument, including on a multi-country basis in order to facilitate stronger cooperation and build on best practices. ·Include data related to antisemitism and Jewish people in the EU into the collection and use of equality data on the grounds of racial or ethnic origin and religion or belief. Member States are encouraged to: ·Ensure that national equality bodies are adequately equipped to ensure that incidents of antisemitic discrimination are properly addressed and reported. ·Address antisemitic discrimination in all areas, including, education and training, employment, health and housing through targeted actions such as training and awareness raising. 1.5.The European Commission leading by example As part of its own human resources strategy, the Commission will continue to strive for an inclusive and diverse working environment free from antisemitism, through diversity and equality policies that prevent harassment, discrimination and any form of racism. In particular, it will continue to raise awareness among its staff on antisemitism and how to combat it, and increase understanding of Jewish life and culture, including as part of a general focus on core European values such as respect for minority groups. Training will also cover unconscious biases including those based on perceptions of religion or belief. The Commission will continue to mark the Holocaust with internal staff events and awareness raising initiatives and continue to host the annual Euro-Chanukah to recognise diversity among staff. The Commission invites the other EU institutions to also take steps to foster diversity and inclusion in their respective workplaces. Key actions: The Commission will: ·Continue to pursue a zero tolerance approach to incidents of antisemitism within the institution, using the IHRA definition as reference. ·Provide training for targeted staff such as human resources professionals to recognise antisemitism based on the IHRA definition and organise study visits when relevant, for instance to Israel. ·Encourage the use of flexible working arrangements to accommodate a religious holiday observance for all its staff. ·Invite the European schools to ensure that all pupils learn about Jewish life in Europe, the Holocaust and antisemitism, and mark the annual International Holocaust Remembrance Day, including by potential visits to memorial sites.

II.PROTECTING AND FOSTERING JEWISH LIFE IN THE EU ‘I’m afraid I’ve lived long enough to see things that I thought History would have finally discarded, but they were only dormant.’ ― Liliana Segre (Shoah survivor) For Jews to participate fully in European life, it is essential that they feel safe and secure. Yet, security is the key concern for the Jewish community. 38% of Jews have considered emigrating because they do not feel safe as Jews in the EU. One-third (34%) of Jews avoid visiting Jewish events or sites at least occasionally because they would not feel safe there or on the way there. Several lethal terrorist attacks across Europe have shown that Jewish premises are not always adequately protected. Although it is the national authorities that are responsible for protecting all citizens, most Jewish communities and civil society organisations have had to invest significant funding in their own security measures. 2.1.Combating violent extremism and terrorism targeted against Jews The 2020-2025 Security Union strategy aims to ensure security for everyone in the EU, in line with EU values and principles. The 2020 Counter-Terrorism Agenda steps up the fight against terrorism and violent extremism and boosts the EU's resilience to terrorist threats. Under the 2017 action plan to support the protection of public spaces including places of worship, various guidance materials, tools and training were developed by the Commission to support the work of Member States and faith communities in this area. The June 2021 Council Conclusions on the protection of public spaces underlined that places of worship demand specific protection measures. Cooperation needs to be further strengthened between public authorities and faith-based leaders and congregations, including Jewish ones, to improve the level of security awareness and increase community engagement and resilience through trust-building activities. This will promote good practices and training in the protection of places of worship, which have increasingly been targeted by terrorist attacks. The Commission will also organise a high-level conference on the protection of Jewish communities in the EU. The Commission will continue to support Members States and Jewish communities in strengthening the protection of places of worship as part of its support for the protection of public spaces. The next call for proposals will be published in 2022 and will increase the total amount to EUR 24 million. The Commission, together with the European Union Intelligence and Situation Centre, will explore the possibility of regular EU assessments of the specific threats to Jewish people, communities and places of worship, in order to better understand, prevent, protect and respond to specific security risks. To combat violent extremism, it is essential to strengthen our democratic societies and increase societal resilience to extremist ideologies. Antisemitism is encountered across the spectrum of extremist ideologies, from jihadism to violent right-wing extremism. Radicalisation, recruitment and preparation of terrorist attacks often take place online. The Regulation on addressing the dissemination of terrorist content online tackles this by requiring online platforms to play a more active role in detecting such content and removing it within at most 1 hour. Key actions: The Commission will: ·Provide EU funding in support of projects focused on the protection of public spaces and places of worship and map, in cooperation with Member States, the existing national security and protection measures. ·Continue to finance research and innovation activities, primarily via the Horizon Europe programme, aiming at understanding the contemporary radicalisation trends, as well as the means and patterns to effectively prevent and respond to them. ·Step up its operational support for Member States and Jewish communities by providing training on security measures. This will include EU protective security advisors’ visits to Member States to set up a network of trainers on the protection of places of worship. ·Identify through the Radicalisation Awareness Network the specific relevance and implications of antisemitism in its work on preventing and countering violent extremism. ·Closely cooperate with Europol, including its EU Internet Referral Unit, to combat online antisemitic terrorism and violent extremism, by taking action against groups and individuals spreading terrorist content online and to ensure swift implementation of the terrorist content online Regulation. ·Support the commemoration of victims of terrorist attacks, including through digital victims’ wall. Member States are encouraged to: ·Adopt the necessary measures to ensure the security of Jewish premises and provide sufficient financial or other support, including with the support of the EU Internal Security Fund-Police national annual programmes. ·Integrate and implement EU tools and guidance on protection of places of worship as part of their national strategies on antisemitism. ·Make use of Europol’s support regarding counter-terrorism activities, both online and offline, and related investigations, including those linked to racism, xenophobia and antisemitism. 2.2.Fostering Jewish life and freedom of religion or belief Jewish life is part of the EU’s diversity. Jews can be secular, liberal, reform, agnostic, orthodox or ultra-orthodox; they may be Ashkenazi or Sephardi; they may have roots in the former Soviet Union, the Middle East, Central Asia, Africa and elsewhere. Many Jews are part of mixed families, further increasing their diversity of origins and beliefs. However, despite the long-standing presence of Jews in Europe, people have scant knowledge of Jewish life and Judaism. Only 3% of Europeans feel ‘very well informed' about Jewish history, customs and practices, while 68% say they are ‘not informed'. To dismantle prejudices and to achieve full recognition of Jewish life as part of Europe’s society, awareness and knowledge of Jewish history and culture need to be increased among the general public. Jewish people express their Jewishness through specific cultural, traditional and religious practices, recalling their history and teaching lessons for future generations. One of these practices is the spring festival TuBishvat (New Year of Trees), a Jewish holiday dedicated to the preservation of nature on which trees are planted in celebration. Shechita, the kosher slaughtering of animals, is another example. In its judgment on ritual slaughtering of December 2020, the Court of Justice of the EU (CJEU), acknowledged that Member States may adopt different rules based on the domestic context, while ensuring respect of Article 10(1) of the Charter, by striking a fair balance between respect for the freedom to manifest religion and the protection of animal welfare.

Jewish life can flourish only within an inclusive society, building on strong and trustful relations with other communities, including newcomers, in particular at local level. Culture can play an important role in developing an inclusive society. From music to cinema and the performing art, the cultural sector is a powerful force for promoting inclusion and fighting all forms of discrimination. The Commission supports Jewish culture and art through EU funding programmes, such as the Creative Europe programme, seeking to combat stereotypes - including about Jewish people - in European society. Sports and the media also have an important role to play in fostering inclusion. In football, some national federations and clubs are already addressing antisemitic behaviours and incidents. The Commission will liaise closely with civil society initiatives and other relevant actors to strengthen the fight against antisemitism and racism in football in the upcoming cooperation arrangement with UEFA (2022-2024) and to address antisemitism in sports in general in cooperation with other partner organisations, including via social media campaigns. Stereotypes also occur in the media. While respecting the freedom of the press, the Commission will support training for journalists on recognising all forms of antisemitism and uncovering antisemitic biases in reporting. Key actions: The Commission will: ·Increase knowledge and understanding about Jewish life among the general public through an awareness-raising campaign in close cooperation with Jewish communities, including through intercultural and interreligious dialogue and activities. ·Foster links between the Jewish tradition of planting trees on the holiday of TuBishvat, including by school children, and the EU pledge to plant 3 billion additional trees under the biodiversity and forest strategy for 2030 , thereby raising mutual awareness and visibility. ·Facilitate, the exchange of practices between public authorities and Jewish and Muslim communities regarding slaughter based on religious traditions, drawing on the experience of international organisations such as the UN, OSCE-ODIHR and the Council of Europe. ·Take action to combat antisemitism and foster Jewish life at regional and local level, including by mapping and developing a guide of good practices and training for organisations that operate at regional and local levels. ·Support the exchange through the European Integration Network of good practices on informing migrants on EU values, including on combating antisemitism, for example by working with migrants as ambassadors for EU values. Member States are encouraged to: ·Ensure through policy and legal measures that religious groups or communities, including Jews, can live their lives in accordance with their religious and cultural traditions. ·Raise awareness among the general public about Jewish life and traditions, including by publicly marking days relevant for Jewish people, and by funding projects and conducting campaigns. 2.3.Safeguarding Jewish heritage Jewish cultural heritage is an integral part of European culture. The extermination of Jewish communities during the Holocaust changed the face of Europe and left many buildings, cemeteries and other Jewish heritage sites unattended or unused. This ‘orphaned heritage’ is now often in poor condition or in danger of deterioration. The European framework for action on cultural heritage includes a specific measure on Jewish cemeteries in Europe. Europe’s cultural heritage, including Jewish heritage, is supported by a range of EU policies, programmes and funding, notably Creative Europe, Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, CERV and cohesion policy funds. The Council of Europe Framework Convention on the Value of Cultural Heritage for Society (Faro Convention) emphasises the important aspects of heritage as they relate to human rights and democracy, and promotes a wider understanding of heritage and its relationship to communities and society. The Terezín Declaration on Holocaust Era Assets and Related Issues, signed by all Member States in 2009, outlines several measures towards restorative justice for the victims of Nazi persecution and their descendants. In the context of DiscoverEU, young travellers are encouraged to visit cultural heritage sites to strengthen their awareness of the Europe’s cultural heritage. Key actions: The Commission will: ·Invite cities to address the history of their minorities, including Jewish community history, when applying for the title of European Capital of Culture. ·Use the European Heritage Days, a joint initiative of the Council of Europe and the Commission, to draw attention to Jewish heritage across Europe. ·Pursue the Jewish digital cultural recovery project, which aims at developing a comprehensive database of information on Jewish-owned cultural assets that were plundered by the Nazis, collecting good practices and proposing awareness-raising activities. ·Launch a preparatory action on protecting the Jewish cemeteries of Europe, capitalising on the results of two previous European Parliament pilot projects on this topic and fostering links between groups interested in the preservation of Jewish burial sites. ·Promote visits of young people travelling around Europe to Jewish heritage sites in the context of DiscoverEU. Member States are encouraged to: ·Encourage and support European Heritage Days, by highlighting Jewish heritage in the national context, including inside national museums, state-sponsored festivals and the arts. ·Support the maintenance and safeguarding of Jewish heritage under the Faro Convention. ·Use EU funding opportunities, including the cohesion policy fund, to safeguard Jewish heritage. ·Implement the Terezín Declaration of 2009. III.EDUCATION, RESEARCH AND REMEMBRANCE ‘How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.’ ― Anne Frank To shape Europe’s future, people need to understand its past. Knowledge about Jewish life and antisemitism in Europe over the centuries and the impact of the Holocaust on the Jewish people and the European continent are essential to understand antisemitism today and prevent such atrocities from ever happening again. Education and research on Jewish life, antisemitism and the Holocaust are crucial in this regard and should not only focus on the Holocaust, but also on the Jewish contribution to European society. The European Education Area and the new European Research Area communications address issues of inclusion, equality and non-discrimination. The Commission also proposed that equal opportunities be a value shared by Member States in research and innovation, in the context of the upcoming Pact for Research and Innovation. The Digital education action plan (2021-2027) focuses on the importance of tackling disinformation and promoting digital literacy in education and training through the development of guidelines for teacher and educators with a view to fostering critical thinking, tolerance and promoting online empowerment. Furthermore, the UNESCO and OSCE/ODIHR have repeatedly called for the promotion of educational programmes in the participating States, including EU Member States, to raise awareness among young people of the value of mutual respect and understanding. UNESCO and OSCE/ODIHR commitments encourage education on antisemitism that ensures a systematic approach, including the development and use of curricula to address contemporary forms of antisemitism. 3.1.Education and research on antisemitism and Jewish life Every child should learn about Jewish life and antisemitism as an integral part of Europe’s history. Education can strengthen young people’s resilience to antisemitic ideas and ideologies and to all forms of intolerance and discrimination. Opportunities to engage with Jewish communities and their members as well as with other minorities and religious groups can also foster mutual understanding. The European Year of Youth 2022 will offer new opportunities in this regard. Schools and campuses must be safe places for all. Teachers should be empowered to address antisemitism, the Holocaust, Jewish life and history, also in multicultural classrooms. The Commission has been supporting research on antisemitism, Jewish life and the Holocaust through Horizon 2020 and the Europe for Citizens programme, and it will continue to do so under their successors, Horizon Europe and the CERV programmes. However, university chairs on antisemitism and Jewish studies in the EU are only loosely connected. There is no overarching research hub. Research efforts on all aspects of antisemitism and Jewish life in Europe should be increased to complement Holocaust research.

The EU has taken the lead in ensuring comparable data on antisemitic experiences and perceptions. The FRA survey on Jewish people’s experiences of antisemitism will be repeated in 2023 and at regular intervals thereafter. The Eurobarometer on perceptions of antisemitism among the general public will be conducted for the second time in 2024 and then every 5 years. To further facilitate evidence based policymaking, more research into antisemitic prejudices among the general population is needed. Key actions: The Commission will: ·Foster, in cooperation with the Member States and the research community, the creation of a European research hub on contemporary antisemitism and Jewish life and culture fostering multidisciplinary research across Europe and fund research through Horizon Europe, on various structural forms of racism and xenophobia, taking into account national specificities and intersectionality. ·Support the development of a network of Young European Ambassadors to promote Holocaust remembrance in schools, universities and vocational and education training institutions. ·Fund an EU-wide survey on antisemitic prejudices in the general population of all Member States, including among young people. ·Support Member States in stepping up their efforts to promote common values and inclusive education and implement the Council Recommendation on promoting common values, inclusive education, and the European dimension of teaching through the new Working Group on equality and values in education and training, including on Jewish life and traditions. ·Support activities, through Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps, aimed at promoting European values and combating all forms of discrimination and intolerance, including antisemitism, by fostering civic education and youth participation in democratic life. ·Support educational professionals’ training in cooperation with UNESCO and OSCE-ODIHR, based on their guidance on ‘Addressing antisemitism through education’, respectively for policymakers and teacher-training institutions. ·Support Member States, through the Technical Support Instrument, in designing and implementing reforms in schools aimed at tackling discrimination in general, and antisemitism in particular. Member States are encouraged to: ·Promote knowledge of Jewish life, antisemitism and the Holocaust through education and research, and encourage exchanges with local communities, where possible. ·Report and record incidents of antisemitic discrimination in schools and support school directors and teachers in addressing them. 3.2.Holocaust education, research and remembrance The Holocaust is a defining legacy of European history, during which six million Jewish children, women and men were murdered. While Jews were the priority target of the Nazi regime, other groups were also persecuted, including Roma, persons with disabilities, Slavs, Jehovah’s witnesses, LGBTIQ people and political dissidents. For decades, Holocaust survivors have shared their stories as part of the remembrance tradition. Today however, all of the survivors have grown old or passed away. Those who were adults during World War II and had the clearest memories of the Holocaust, are no longer with us. Preserving and honouring their legacy, making sure their stories are not forgotten and are retold accurately, and finding new forms of remembrance are challenges and duties for this generation and future generations of Europeans. Currently, one European in 20 has never heard of the Holocaust, and less than half of Europeans think it is sufficiently taught in schools. Education and research play a key role in raising awareness of the Holocaust. Free, open and independent research is a core value of democracies. Research on all aspects of the Holocaust is also important to increase understanding of how the Holocaust was possible in Europe. With EUR 25 million (2010-2024), the European Holocaust Research Infrastructure (EHRI) - the largest EU-funded research initiative on the Holocaust globally - connects the research community by making available, across Europe and beyond, dispersed sources related to the Holocaust. In this regard, EHRI will expand its research focus on manifestations of antisemitism that led to the Holocaust. New ways of raising awareness must also be developed, in particular in a local context, where places ‘where the Holocaust happened’ – from synagogues to Jewish cultural sites, from hiding places to shooting grounds – are often not visible. This can include a network enabling school students, practitioners and the general public to trace the continuity of Jewish presence in Europe over the centuries and facilitate local initiatives to visit and restore cultural and memorial sites. The Commission will also foster public debate (online or town hall) on the significance of the Holocaust in a diverse EU and support the creation of a participatory European Holocaust Monument in Brussels, linked with pieces of arts in EU capitals. Key actions: The Commission will: ·Support, also financially, the creation of a network of sites ‘where the Holocaust happened’, in cooperation with local communities. ·Make project funding available through the Remembrance strand of the CERV programme to commemorate the Holocaust also through the digitalisations of archives and testimonies of Holocaust survivors. ·Continue its presence in and support for Holocaust commemoration days and events, at both EU level and national level, in cooperation with the Commission Representations in Member States and EU delegations. Member States are encouraged to: ·Commemorate the Holocaust publicly in close cooperation with the Jewish community, including with the involvement of the national parliaments. ·Ensure that the universality of the Holocaust is reflected in education and assess the effectiveness of how it is taught, including in a multi-ethnic and diverse classroom. ·Become active partners in the implementation of the EHRI infrastructure, including through financial contributions. 3.3.Holocaust denial, distortion and trivialisation Manifestations of Holocaust denial, distortion and trivialisation are unfortunately increasing. 53% of Europeans perceive Holocaust denial as being a problem in their country. 62% of Jews have seen or heard non-Jewish people suggest that the Holocaust is a myth or has been exaggerated, at least occasionally. Holocaust denial, distortion and trivialisation are often used to feed hatred against Jewish people and in an attempt to rewrite European and Jewish history. Their corrosive effects for collective historic memory and for the resilience and cohesion of our democratic societies should not be underestimated and need to be specifically addressed. Hate speech relating to the condoning, denial or gross trivialisation of the Holocaust is prohibited under the Framework Decision on combating racism and xenophobia. To educate and raise awareness, the Commission cooperates with the IHRA through its Permanent International Partnership using the IHRA definition of Holocaust denial and distortion, to combat this phenomenon. An example is the awareness-raising campaign #ProtectTheFacts, which focuses on countering Holocaust distortion. In partnership with the IHRA and UNESCO, the Commission will further develop other initiatives based on the ‘IHRA recommendation on recognising and Countering Holocaust distortion’. Key actions: The Commission will: ·Promote the use of the IHRA definition of Holocaust denial and distortion for education and for awareness-raising purposes. ·Develop a handbook on best practices in fighting Holocaust denial, distortion and trivialisation. ·Support and strengthen social media campaigns together with UNESCO, the IHRA and other international partners and civil society groups to raise awareness of Holocaust denial and distortion and actively combat it. Member States are encouraged to: ·Actively engage in awareness campaigns against Holocaust denial, distortion and trivialisation. IV.LEADING THE GLOBAL FIGHT AGAINST ANTISEMITISM ‘The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking.’

― Albert Einstein The Jewish population worldwide is estimated to be 15.2 million. Of this, 45% or 6.9 million live in Israel. With about 6 million, the United States is home to the second-largest community of Jewish people. In addition to the 1.5 million Jews in the EU, the remaining Jewish populations live scattered around the globe on all inhabited continents. Antisemitic prejudices are widespread across the world. According to the Anti-Defamation League research on attitudes and opinions towards Jews, 74% of people in the Middle East/North Africa region harbour antisemitic attitudes, notwithstanding that some positive signals are also to register, such as the recent normalisation of relations between Israel and a number of countries in the region . In Western Europe the figure stands at 24% and in Eastern Europe at 34%, while in the Americas it is 19%, in Asia 22% and in Sub-Saharan Africa 23%. The situation and size of Jewish communities vary considerably between countries. Jews are at risk and experience antisemitic attacks and incidents around the globe. Antisemitic prejudices can also be found in countries without Jewish communities. In this context, the European Commission reaffirms its firm and unequivocal commitment to the global fight antisemitism. Any form of antisemitism, incitement to hatred or violence is unacceptable and incompatible with the values and aims of the European Union and its Member States. It must be addressed through firm action, both at European and national level. These principles are non-negotiable for the European Commission. In light of the above, mainstreaming the prevention and countering of antisemitism in all its forms and across all policy areas is essential. 4.1.Use all instruments to address antisemitism through the EU’s external action The EU is founded on a strong commitment to promote and protect human rights, democracy and the rule of law worldwide. This commitment underpins the EU’s enlargement and neighbourhood policies and its policies towards other non-EU countries, as well as its work in international organisations. All countries should protect the right of everyone, including Jewish people, to have, not have or change their religion or belief, to manifest publicly their religion or belief, and to be free from discrimination, persecution or violence on grounds of religion or belief, or based on their racial or ethnic origin. The 2020-2024 EU action plan on human rights and democracy sets the level of ambition and establishes the priorities of the EU and its Member States in this field, in relations with non-EU countries. The 2013 Guidelines on freedom of religion or belief outside the EU and the 2019 Guidelines on non-discrimination in external action spell out tools to be used by the EU’s external arm to address violations of freedom of religion or belief and combat discrimination, including against Jewish people. The EU will use all available tools to call on partner countries to actively combat antisemitism, taking into account the IHRA definition of antisemitism, in political and human rights dialogues and in its broader cooperation with partner countries. This is supported through thematic and geographic programmes and EU’s neighbourhood and enlargement policies, including in the stabilisation and association processes. The EU will actively cooperate with international organisations, in particular the United Nations, the Council of Europe and the OSCE, as well as with regional organisations in joint actions to fight discrimination and antisemitism. The EU will step up actions in the education sector and continue to promote full compliance of education material with UNESCO standards of peace, tolerance, coexistence and non-violence, in its cooperation on education with partner countries. Any material that goes against them risks undermining peace and co-existence and has no place in textbooks or classrooms. The EU Special Representative for Human Rights and the Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief outside the EU will continue to systematically address antisemitism in their work. In addition, the EU will strengthen the global cooperation of special envoys and coordinators on combating antisemitism. Israel is a key partner for the European Union, including in the global fight against antisemitism. The EU will seek to further reinforce the EU-Israel High-Level Seminar on combating racism, xenophobia and antisemitism, co-organised annually, with a focus on operational follow-up. Actions aiming to combat antisemitism can be supported through the NDICI Global Europe thematic programme on human rights and democracy initiatives addressing non-discrimination. The EU will include as part of its training on human rights for staff at delegations and headquarters specific sessions on freedom of religion or belief, including on combating antisemitism. Key actions: The Commission and the High Representative will: ·Promote the fight against religious and ethnic discrimination, including antisemitism in political and human rights dialogues and in broader cooperation with partner countries outside the EU. ·Ensure training on fundamental rights and undertaking of intercultural dialogue for relevant actors, including teachers from outside the EU. ·Ensure that EU external funds, in compliance with existing measures, may not be misallocated to activities that incite hatred and violence, including against Jewish people. ·Step up engagement in the education sector to promote full compliance of education material with UNESCO standards of peace, tolerance, coexistence and non-violence, as appropriate. ·Strengthen engagement with Jewish civil society and religious organisations to address antisemitic acts and limitations on freedom of religion or belief, through the network of EU delegations and headquarters. ·Consider new EU-funded projects in the EU’s neighbourhood and beyond to prevent and counter antisemitism and foster Jewish life. ·Encourage the EU delegations to include reporting of antisemitic incidents in non-EU countries, in their regular political reporting. ·Reinforce the EU-Israel seminar to further strengthen EU-Israel cooperation in the fight against antisemitism. Member States are encouraged to: ·Closely cooperate at EU level to jointly address antisemitism through international organisations. ·Incorporate the fight against antisemitism into all their human rights strategies and policies, taking into account the IHRA definition of antisemitism. ·Support projects and organisations combating antisemitism and fostering Jewish life worldwide. 4.2.Safeguarding Jewish cultural heritage and commemorating the Holocaust Jewish cultural heritage is visible in many places in the Middle East, Asia and other places around the world, bearing witness to the historical presence of Jewish communities in those regions. Large parts of this heritage are orphaned as Jewish communities no longer live there. Jewish cultural heritage, like all heritage, is a shared and important expression of cultural diversity and deserves dedicated protection worldwide. The EU together with the Member States has a key role to play in helping local, regional and international partners to safeguard cultural heritage through training, skills development and knowledge transfer activities as well as reinforced cooperation. Intercultural and interfaith dialogue will be supported by the EU to reinforce cultural heritage protections through work on shared history and memory, building the basis for communities to live together peacefully in a multicultural context. The EU will continue to promote Holocaust remembrance at international level and to publicly call out Holocaust denial, distortion and trivialisation in non-EU countries, including in international fora. Key actions: The Commission and the High Representative will: ·Promote and support the safeguarding, rehabilitation, and revitalisation of all heritage, tangible and intangible, including Jewish heritage, in line with its policies for international cultural relations and cultural heritage. ·Integrate intercultural and interfaith dialogue in cultural heritage interventions. ·Seek opportunities to include maintenance of Jewish heritage in programming in the neighbourhood and beyond. ·Continue to organise and participate in high-level events around the remembrance of Shoah victims (commemorations, Holocaust Remembrance Day). Member States are encouraged to: ·Contribute, together with the EU in the UN context, to the worldwide safeguarding of cultural heritage, including Jewish heritage, in line with the Council Conclusions on EU strategic approach to cultural heritage in conflicts and crises. ·Mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day in cooperation with EU delegations, through their embassies in third countries and in international organisations.