UK Anti-Jewish Racism is growing at an exponential rate with 7 out of 10 Jews in the UK having faced (either personally or a member of their family) an anti-semitic (anti-jewish racist incident) in the last 12 months. It is estimated that 50% of all UK Jews are now hiding their Jewish identity in the workplace.  

Recent unacceptable displays of antisemitism at events like Glastonbury highlight the urgent need for clarity, education, and decisive action. Business leaders have a profound responsibility to foster inclusive, respectful workplaces and communities.

At WiHTL & DiR we stand up against all forms of discrimination and racism and have publicly adopted the international definition of Anti-Semitism (Anti-Jewish Racism) as determined by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) and we encourage our members to do the same. 

By adopting the IHRA definition of antisemitism (Anti-Jewish racism) CEOs would send a powerful message that there is no place for hatred or discrimination in our society. The IHRA defines antisemitism as: “A certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.” 

Over 1,300 entities worldwide, including universities, governmental bodies, NGOs, athletic clubs, and companies, have adopted the definition. Adopting the definition will hopefully allow your Jewish employees to feel more confident and secure at work and hopefully no longer feel the need to hide their Jewish identity in the workplace. 

Holocaust Survivor and Noble Prize winner Eli Weisel said: “the opposite of love is NOT hate but indifference". 

It is important that we are never indifferent to any forms of racism, discrimination and that must include Anti-Jewish Racism/Anti Semitism.

To deepen understanding, leaders and teams can explore the following resources such as the IHRA’s official website, the Anti‑Defamation League’s education tools, and the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum’s resources on recognising and combating antisemitism. Below are a few links to get you started. 

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