A recent assessment reveals significant progress in combating anti-Semitism in Austria, with 38 out of 41 measures implemented successfully. Constitutional Minister Karoline Edtstadler highlighted key initiatives, including new legislation against online hate speech and the protection of Jewish cultural heritage. Despite advances, challenges remain, with concerns over rising anti-Semitic incidents. The annual forum, initiated by Edtstadler, unites various sectors to foster collaboration against anti-Semitism, underscoring the ongoing commitment to this critical issue.
Progress Made in Combating Anti-Semitism
According to a comprehensive new assessment, 38 out of 41 measures aimed at tackling anti-Semitism have been successfully executed, while three are currently in progress. This update was shared by Constitutional Minister Karoline Edtstadler (ÖVP) during the National Forum against Antisemitism held on Monday. Key initiatives include the revision of the prohibition law and the introduction of legislation to combat online hate speech, although the creation of a dedicated documentation center is still pending.
Commitment to Anti-Semitism Prevention
Throughout her tenure, Edtstadler has demonstrated a strong commitment to fighting anti-Semitism. She recently announced her decision not to pursue a ministerial role in any forthcoming government, opting instead to remain a regular member of parliament while planning to establish a law firm in Salzburg.
Recent reports indicate the establishment of a center dedicated to anti-Semitism research at the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW). Additionally, new legislation safeguarding Austrian-Jewish cultural heritage has been enacted, and a department focused on promoting this heritage and combating anti-Semitism has been created within the Federal Chancellery. This initiative is now integrated into integration courses for asylum seekers, and efforts to document anti-Semitic incidents have been intensified.
Since the introduction of the anti-Semitism strategy in 2021, efforts have expanded to address online hate. Austria proudly holds the distinction of being the first country to implement such a comprehensive strategy, as noted by Oskar Deutsch, president of the Jewish Community (IKG).
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in curbing anti-Semitism. Deutsch pointed out the emergence of manifestations from right-wing, left-wing, and Muslim groups, and he condemned the recent attacks on Israeli football supporters in Amsterdam, raising concerns about similar incidents occurring elsewhere. Edtstadler echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need to combat anti-Semitism in all its forms, particularly following the spike in incidents after the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
Deutsch stressed that addressing this issue requires more than just political will. He highlighted that representatives from various sectors—including the federal government, states, municipalities, social partners, academia, religious communities, Jewish museums, and civil society—participate in the annual forum initiated by Edtstadler. This forum serves as a platform for collaboration among those dedicated to the fight against anti-Semitism. Extremism expert Ahmad Mansour is also set to speak at the event, which Edtstadler hopes will inspire ongoing initiatives even after her departure from government.
In a recent incident, Deutsch expressed his support for Jewish Austrian students who peacefully protested against the Freedom Party’s National Council President Walter Rosenkranz (FPÖ) during a commemoration of the November pogroms at Judenplatz. While Edtstadler holds a “divided opinion” on the matter, she emphasized the importance of distinguishing between an official role and the individual party affiliation, lamenting the growing polarization within society.