Special envoys and coordinators combating antisemitism from more than two dozen countries and international organizations issued a joint declaration Tuesday warning that antisemitism has become an escalating global threat and calling for stronger protections for Jewish communities worldwide.
The statement, released during a gathering of the Special Envoys and Coordinators Combating Antisemitism network in Geneva, was signed by representatives from the United States, Israel, Canada, Australia, European countries, the European Commission, the Organization of American States and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
The declaration cited a rise in attacks targeting synagogues, Jewish schools and community gatherings in multiple countries, saying the incidents were intended to intimidate Jewish communities and threaten Jewish life.
“Antisemitism is a threat to Jews — and that alone would be reason enough to fight it,” the statement said. “But it also erodes the very foundations of our democratic and free societies.”
The envoys called on governments to strengthen security for Jewish institutions and communities, prosecute perpetrators of antisemitic crimes and increase international cooperation against extremism.
The statement also emphasized the role of education in combating antisemitism and urged expanded Holocaust education and research, particularly for younger generations.
The signatories warned that online hate has amplified antisemitic rhetoric and violence, calling on governments, social media platforms, artificial intelligence companies and civil society organizations to work together to curb antisemitic content in digital spaces.
“Expressions of antisemitism in the physical world are influenced by the digital world,” the declaration said.
The statement reaffirmed support for the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism and stressed that antisemitism “cannot be tolerated anytime or any place.”
The declaration underscored a rare point of international consensus at a time of political divisions among democratic nations, with the signatories emphasizing a shared commitment to protecting Jewish life and democratic values.