The UK government is taking action to combat rising antisemitism, particularly at universities.Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has proposed new legislation and funding to address the issue. The goal is to ensure that Jewish students feel safe on campus and are protected from bullying and discrimination.
Key Measures and Statistics
Proposed Legislation: The government is considering new laws to tackle antisemitism at universities.
Increased Funding: A £4 million fund has been allocated to support programs that help students and staff identify online misinformation and promote interfaith awareness. An additional £2 million is being invested in a scheme to educate secondary school students in England about the Holocaust.
Training Sessions: The government will fund 600 training sessions for university staff, led by the Union of Jewish Students, to help them address bullying and bigotry.
Reported Incidents and Concerns
The Community Security Trust, a charity that provides security for Jewish institutions, reported an increase in antisemitic incidents on university campuses during the 2022/23 and 2024 academic years compared to the previous two years.
The rise in antisemitism has led to concerns among Jewish students and their families. Many Jewish students have reported feeling unsafe on campus and struggling to conceal their identity.
Pro-Palestinian marches, which have taken place since the beginning of the Gaza conflict, have been a source of tension. During a recent march in London, the Metropolitan Police made 14 arrests for various offences, including breaching the Public Order Act and assisting a proscribed group.
