There is hardly any other term that causes as much discussion and misunderstanding in Germany as antisemitism. While everyone agrees that antisemitism must be resolutely combated, there is great disagreement about what should be categorized as antisemitic and what is legitimate criticism of Israel. Since the seventh of October, the boundaries have become even more blurred – what accusation can be made, what demand can be made, what slogan can be chanted, what sign can be held up? And who should decide this in Germany – politicians, courts or security forces? Can German authorities determine what is antisemitic when even academics are still debating various definitions and characteristics?
We aim to approach the phenomenon of antisemitism by shedding light on its historical development and analyzing the forms it has taken in today’s society. How has its definition changed over time? Does modern antisemitism have the same roots as historic antisemitism? What does the creation of the state of Israel mean for the Jews themselves and what role does Zionism play for the self-image of Jewish people worldwide? Is criticism of Zionism a hidden criticism of Jews and therefore a new form of antisemitism? Or does anti-Zionism help with the overdue demarcation from an Israeli state that is based on injustice, occupation and unequal treatment, and is therefore a new form of antisemitism?
In Germany, responsibility for the Holocaust and the “Staatsräson” derived from it has led to unconditional support for Israel. The fight against antisemitism therefore centers less on the anti-Jewish conspiracy narrative and more on criticism of Israel and Zionism. The accusation of Israel-related antisemitism has thus become an instrument of extremist actors with which both Arab and Jewish critical-progressive individuals can be defamed.
The rise of radical right-wing forces in Europe brings back memories of a dark past. While this threat appears more real by the day, the German public is primarily discussing “Muslim” and “left-wing” antisemitism. Is politics focusing on marginalized groups in order to divert attention from the antisemitism that actually exists in mainstream society? Aren’t Jews and Muslims both victims of racism and marginalization? And how could a better distinction be made between antisemitism, anti-Zionism and criticism of Israel in the interests of a domestic and foreign policy based on human rights?
Speakers: Elad Lapidot, David Ranan und Werner Sonne und Stefanie Schüler-Springorum
Moderation: Kristin Helberg
