Handling Allegations of Antisemitism

The University adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition in 2020 and this is still our current position. We fully recognise this is a complex and sensitive topic, with strongly held views and compelling perspectives put forward by both supporters and objectors to various definitions on antisemitism. Consideration and discussions around the IHRA definition have been ongoing at the University for some time. 

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

All of the recommendations in the review will be considered objectively by a Response Group, and with respect for our diverse community. There are nearly 50 recommendations in the Review for the Response Group to consider, and time is needed to work through them all methodically, and with care. 

The University remains a signatory to IHRA at this stage, and any decision to modify our approaches to definitions (if that is recommended) will only be taken by the University Executive after it is satisfied that there has been robust and widespread consultation with our Jewish communities, and others who may wish to contribute, in accordance with our duties under the Equality Act. How best to approach consultation inclusively with our community, recognising the impact on all of those with lived experiences of antisemitism, requires ongoing careful consideration. 

We are very mindful of anxieties in our community at present, and emphatically wish to assure all members of our community that we will not tolerate any form of racial or religious harassment or discrimination on our campus

We will continue to take all complaints about racial, religious or any other form of harassment and discrimination seriously, and apply robust procedures in assessing and responding to them, carefully balancing our duties in relation to academic freedom and freedom of expression with protections afforded under equalities legislation. 

The University does not tolerate antisemitism in any form. Our Dignity & Respect policy makes it clear that the University is intent on promoting a positive culture for working and studying in which all members of the University’s community treat each other with dignity, respect and where inappropriate behaviour including any form of discrimination, harassment and bullying is handled appropriately.

At its meeting of 21 July 2020 the University Executive agreed that the University should adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism and should use this definition when an allegation of antisemitism is being taken forward under the Staff Disciplinary Policy or the Code of Student Conduct.

The definition reads: “Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”

The University also has a moral and statutory duty to uphold freedom of expression on campus and will interpret and apply the IHRA definition in a way that is consistent with these duties. This includes applying the IHRA definition on a case-by-case basis when allegations of antisemitism are being investigated, in a manner that recognises and respects the right to freedom of expression on campus and our commitment to a positive environment for all members of our community.

We are actively reviewing our approach to tackling antisemitism, including consideration of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition, in discussion with our Jewish staff and students and wider communities.