Pro-Palestine students in Australia call for repeal of IHRA definition of antisemitism

Coalition of Muslim student groups and Palestine solidarity organizations push back against new university-specific definition

SYDNEY, Australia (MNTV) – A coalition of Muslim student groups and Palestine solidarity organizations in Australia has called for the repeal of a newly adopted definition of antisemitism, arguing that it unfairly conflates criticism of Israel with hatred of Jewish people.

The group, consisting of 26 Muslim Students Associations (MSAs) and 35 pro-Palestinian organizations, has expressed concern that the definition “systematically criminalises Palestinian, Muslim, and Arab students” across Australian universities. 

Their call follows the release of a “Statement on Racism” by Universities Australia (UA) on February 27, said Middle East Eye.

The statement, which represents 39 of Australia’s 43 universities, introduced a uniform definition of antisemitism to be adopted across the institutions. 

Drawing on the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, the statement also incorporated recommendations from taskforces at major US universities including Columbia, Stanford, Harvard, and New York University.

In response, the coalition sent a joint letter urging universities to rescind their adoption of the definition, citing concerns that it restricts free speech and could stifle discussions critical of Israeli policies in academic settings.

“We are deeply concerned that this definition will have a chilling effect on students who wish to express solidarity with Palestinians or challenge Israeli government actions,” said a spokesperson for the coalition. 

“The definition could lead to disciplinary actions against those who engage in legitimate political discourse.”

Universities Australia’s decision to adopt the IHRA definition has sparked heated debates within academic circles. 

Proponents argue that it is necessary to combat antisemitism on campuses, while experts assert that it limits freedom of expression by blurring the lines between antisemitism and political criticism of Israel.

As the controversy unfolds, the coalition of student groups remains committed to advocating for a definition that protects both Jewish students and the right to free speech, especially in discussions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.