Antisemitism

Understanding Antisemitism and our commitment to inclusion and respect

Introduction

The University of Edinburgh is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for all students and staff, and does not tolerate antisemitism in any form.

Our expectations for behaviour are set out in the University’s Dignity & Respect Policy, which affirms the right of every member of our community to learn and work free from harassment, discrimination and hate.

Jewish communities reflect a wide range of identities, cultures, beliefs and lived experiences. Our approach recognises this diversity and seeks to support a respectful and inclusive environment for all.

This page provides:

  • an overview of antisemitism
  • the University’s position on definitions
  • support and reporting routes
  • information about learning opportunities and resources

IHRA Working Definition: Update on the University’s position on definitions of antisemitism (2025)

The University of Edinburgh adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition in 2020.

The IHRA definition describes antisemitism as ‘a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews.’

This definition provides a framework for understanding the different ways antisemitism can be expressed. It may be directed towards:

  • Jewish individuals
  • people perceived to be Jewish
  • Jewish community institutions, organisations or places of worship

How antisemitism may be experienced

Antisemitism can take a range of forms, including:

  • harassment or verbal abuse
  • stereotyping or conspiracy narratives
  • exclusion or discrimination
  • denial or distortion of Jewish history and identity
  • online abuse or hate speech

Antisemitism may also be structural or institutional, shaping environments in ways that marginalise Jewish staff and students or limit full participation in University life.

The University’s approach

The University of Edinburgh adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition in 2020 and continues to apply this as its current position.

The definition is applied within the University’s legal and policy framework, including:

  • the Equality Act 2010
  • the Dignity and Respect Policy

In applying this framework, the University continues to uphold its responsibilities in relation to:

  • academic freedom
  • freedom of expression

We recognise this is a complex and sensitive topic, with a range of perspectives on definitions of antisemitism. Consideration and discussions around the IHRA definition have been ongoing at the University for some time. 

The recommendation to ‘un‑adopt’ the IHRA definition, which has received recent media attention, came from an academically‑led, independently authored review on the University’s history. The views expressed in the review are those of the academic researchers.

All recommendations from the review will be considered objectively through appropriate governance processes, including a Response Group, and with respect for our diverse community.

The University does not tolerate any form of racial or religious harassment or discrimination.

All complaints relating to antisemitism, or any other form of discrimination, are taken seriously and addressed through robust procedures carefully balancing our duties in relation to academic freedom and freedom of expression with protections afforded under equalities legislation.

Dignity and Respect at the University

The University is committed to promoting a learning and working environment in which all members of our community are treated with dignity and respect.

Antisemitism — whether expressed through discrimination, harassment, exclusion, or hostile behaviour — is unacceptable and is handled within the University’s wider framework for preventing and addressing discriminatory conduct.

Our Policies and Standards

Our institutional approach is grounded in the Dignity and Respect Policy which sets out the standards of behaviour expected of all staff and students.  The policy establishes the University’s responsibilities to prevent and respond to harassment, discrimination and hate, including antisemitism, and explains the mechanisms available for reporting concerns and accessing support.

Support Routes for Staff and Students

If you experience or witness antisemitism, you can access support or report concerns through:

The University takes all reports seriously and responds in line with its legal responsibilities.

Training and Learning Opportunities

The University supports learning and development to build understanding of antisemitism and Jewish identities, cultures and experiences.

Training and resources are available through:

  • centrally organised sessions
  • School or service‑level activity
  • external partners

Details of current training opportunities and materials are available via the Anti‑Racist Hub and related internal platforms.

Additional Support and Resources

In addition to formal reporting routes and staff networks, colleagues at the University may find the following University‑linked resources helpful:

External organisations may also be helpful for support, community connection, and advice:

Ongoing Commitment

The University recognises that tackling Antisemitism requires sustained effort, listening to lived experience, and meaningful engagement with (our) Jewish communities. We are committed to working with our students, our staff, our community partners and external organisations to ensure Jewish people feel safe, supported and able to thrive at the University of Edinburgh.

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