The President of the Union of Italian Jewish Communities, Noemi Di Segni, wrote an article about the need to fight against antisemitism in the next European Parliament term.
“On the eve of the new European governance and the start of a new legislature, which will face a very challenging historical phase, the issues of political weight and the democratic identity with which Italy presents itself are central. This coherence is essential as we take our seats at European tables, whether they concern the economy, defense, or immigration, in light of historical responsibilities.
There is no Europe, and no common democratic construction, without a clear memory of the Shoah and a clear condemnation of every form of antisemitism—whether it comes from right-wing nostalgia for Nazi-fascism or from left-wing movements that demonize Israel and distort the history of Zionism, aiding Islamic terrorism.
Being elected to the Italian or European Parliament is not enough to represent the needs of Italians. To uphold that democratic trust and constitutional legitimacy, it is necessary to eradicate every element of discrimination and antisemitic hatred without delay or political calculation.
Recently, additional concerns have arisen regarding the spread of antisemitism in Italy, Europe, and worldwide since October 7, 2023. It is alarming that young Italians, through associations, nostalgically recall gestures and figures of fascism, spreading ideologies of racial hatred, particularly against Jews, and once again praising the racial persecution that led to tragic extermination.
We cannot ignore the serious actions of other young people—students and similar groups—who have been, for months, abusing constitutionally guaranteed rights and freedoms. They call for the destruction of Israel and the boycott of Israeli universities and institutions, preventing students from attending classes regularly, causing significant damage, and misusing public spaces intended for peaceful coexistence and democratic discussion.
Today, Italy tends to exploit Israel and the Jews for instrumental political purposes, which we forcefully reject. We refuse to be used as pawns in political games marked by hatred. We reiterate our commitment to serving the entire Italian democratic community: as a religious minority, we appreciate the constant attention of the police and aspire to live our faith safely in this country. We hope that Italy can democratically guarantee everyone the right to live their political or religious choices with respect and pride.
We once again appeal to those who lead the Italian institutions, particularly the majority party, to clearly and firmly oppose all forms of racism and discrimination. We urge them to adopt the necessary measures to exclude any internal support for ideologies that undermine the credibility on which every Italian claim and position is based.”
