Europe Desk

Strasbourg Charter: Dozens of MEPs Sign Landmark Declaration Aligning Anti‑Israel Hostility With Antisemitism

Lawmakers from the Patriots for Europe group formally adopted the IHRA working definition of antisemitism this week, pledging unified opposition to boycotts, discriminatory sanctions, and the demonization of the Jewish state.

In a powerful and timely demonstration of solidarity, dozens of Members of the European Parliament gathered this week in Strasbourg to formally adopt a charter that explicitly recognizes attacks on the State of Israel as potential expressions of modern antisemitism. The move, led by lawmakers from the Patriots for Europe group — the third-largest political family in the European Parliament — marks a significant step forward in the continent’s fight against rising hatred and a clear affirmation of Israel’s right to exist and defend itself.

The conference brought together representatives from major national parties across Europe, including members of Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš’s ANO 2011, Hungary’s Fidesz, the Netherlands’ Party for Freedom led by Geert Wilders, Austria’s Freedom Party, and France’s National Rally under Jordan Bardella. Together they signed a declaration fully aligning with the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism.

A Clear Stand Against Modern Hatred

The charter affirms that certain forms of hostility toward Israel — particularly those that deny the Jewish people’s right to self-determination, apply double standards, or hold Jews collectively responsible for the actions of the Israeli government — constitute antisemitism in its contemporary guise. It also underscores the obligation to combat Holocaust denial and distortion while preserving the memory of the Holocaust’s unique crimes.

This initiative comes as a direct and principled response to recent European measures targeting communities in Judea and Samaria, as well as the broader surge in antisemitic incidents across the continent. By drawing a firm line, the parliamentarians are signaling that legitimate criticism of any government must never cross into the demonization of an entire nation or people.

“The fight against antisemitism is not a partisan issue but a fundamental defense of European values — democracy, historical truth, and equal rights.” — A conference participant, Strasbourg

Building a Stronger Coalition for Truth and Security

Organizers emphasized that the gathering aims to establish a coherent European position: unwavering support for Israel, firm opposition to discriminatory sanctions and boycotts, and an active campaign against antisemitism in all its forms. The Patriots for Europe group’s decision to formalize this stance is seen by supporters as a hopeful counterweight to pressures that have sought to isolate Israel diplomatically.

Jewish community leaders and pro-Israel advocates across Europe have welcomed the declaration as a long-overdue clarification. They note that the IHRA definition has already been adopted by numerous governments, universities, and institutions worldwide precisely because it provides practical guidance for distinguishing legitimate debate from prejudice. The European lawmakers’ endorsement strengthens that consensus and encourages other political groups and national parliaments to follow suit.

Looking Ahead with Resolve

The Strasbourg conference is more than a symbolic gesture. It represents a growing recognition among a significant bloc of European elected officials that the security of Jewish communities and the legitimacy of the Jewish state are inseparable. By publicly committing to the IHRA framework and rejecting the equation of anti-Israel activism with progressive politics, these parliamentarians are helping to restore moral clarity at a time when it is most needed.

As one participant noted, the fight against antisemitism is not a partisan issue but a fundamental defense of European values — democracy, historical truth, and equal rights. The declaration offers a promising foundation for further legislative and educational initiatives that can protect Jewish life, support Israel’s right to self-defense, and ensure that the lessons of the past continue to guide Europe’s future.

In an era of rising threats, the willingness of dozens of EU parliamentarians to stand firmly on the side of truth and against hatred sends an encouraging message: Europe still has voices prepared to confront antisemitism without apology or equivocation.