Adelaide University rejects IHRA working definition of anti-Semitism

Hot on the heels of Adelaide Writers’ Week, in April the University of Adelaide rejected the adoption of the International Holocaust Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism. This occurred after a nation-wide campaign (that still continues) by Zionist groups in Australia to have universities and other institutions, including governments and local councils, adopt this definition into their rules or policies.

The definition, known as the IHRA working definition, uses examples to demonstrate instances of antisemitism. More than half of the examples focus on Israel, conflating criticism of Israel with racism against Jews. It is patently clear that adoption of the definition by universities would inhibit freedom of speech on campus by students, academics and staff should they dare to criticise Israel.

In its 11 April statement the University Council declared, “We proudly encourage critical thinking and respectful debate. Freedom of speech is a right everyone holds, subject to the law. The right to express lawful views about controversial matters is at the heart of a robust democracy. It is also the essence of academic freedom.”

AFOPA's executive committee and members, other Australian Palestinian solidarity groups, a number of Jewish organisations and campus groups around the country campaigned against the university adopting the definition. It was noted by many that members of Adelaide University’s Council would have observed in their own city during Adelaide Writers’ Week exactly how the IHRA definition can play out. Again, a victory for free speech and another victory for Palestine!