Controversy Erupts Over Left Party's Definition of Antisemitism

The Left Party in Germany has sparked outrage among Jewish organizations following its recent decision to adopt a contentious definition of antisemitism during its party congress in Chemnitz. The new definition aligns with the so-called Jerusalem Declaration, which many critics argue undermines the fight against antisemitism.

Josef Schuster, the President of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, expressed his dismay, stating that the party's stance indicates a lack of support for Jewish communities. He emphasized that the decision reflects where the Left Party stands, which he claims is not alongside Jews in Germany.

The Jewish Values Initiative also condemned the Left Party's choice, asserting that it allows for anti-Israel sentiment to flourish under the guise of legitimate criticism, thereby shirking the responsibility to protect Jewish life and perspectives. In explaining the rationale behind the switch, party officials argued that the previous definition from the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) often conflated legitimate criticism of Israel with antisemitism, which they claim has been misused to silence dissent.

According to the resolution passed, the Left Party criticized the IHRA's definition as a tool for state repression that inhibits political protest. Prominent members of the party showcased their solidarity with Palestinians by wearing keffiyehs during the congress.

Schuster countered these claims, declaring that the IHRA definition effectively identifies antisemitism in its various forms and is recognized by most democratic nations worldwide. He stated that acknowledging and naming antisemitism is crucial in combating it.

While the IHRA definition lacks legal binding authority, it is utilized in various sectors in Germany, including public events and educational programs run by federal agencies. The Left Party's decision to endorse the Jerusalem Declaration signals a shift in its approach to what constitutes antisemitism, particularly concerning criticisms of Israel. The declaration asserts that while it is indeed antisemitic to hold all Jews accountable for Israeli actions, boycotts against Israel, such as those advocated by the pro-Palestinian BDS movement, do not automatically constitute antisemitism.

Schuster accused the Left Party of showing ignorance toward the Jewish community's concerns, asserting that the party appears to have a radical core that, fueled by anti-Israel sentiment, contributes to downplaying contemporary antisemitism. The Jewish Values Initiative announced that it would cease any cooperation with the Left Party.

The vote to adopt the Jerusalem Declaration was a narrow one, taking place just before the conclusion of the party's congress. A total of 213 delegates supported the motion, while 181 were opposed, and 48 abstained from voting. Many delegates had reportedly left the congress prior to the vote.

The Jerusalem Declaration, composed by approximately 20 scholars and released in 2021, argues against the assertion that comparisons between Israeli policies and historical examples of colonialism or apartheid are inherently antisemitic. The declaration also states that calls for boycotts or sanctions are not automatically antisemitic.

Following the vote, some members of the party expressed their discontent. Notably, Bodo Ramelow, a Bundestag representative and former Minister President of Thuringia, questioned how the party could make such a decision on a matter of scholarly debate, stressing that those who seek to eradicate Israel or harm Jews are exhibiting antisemitism. Meanwhile, others, such as Ferat Koçak and Cansin Köktürk, defended the resolution, stating that criticizing the actions of the Israeli government does not equate to antisemitism.

The Left Party faces internal turmoil as it navigates its position on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Several prominent members have already left the party due to disagreements over its stance on antisemitism, with more potential withdrawals anticipated in light of the recent developments.