The French government has received a comprehensive report outlining new measures to combat antisemitism, with a strong emphasis on education and law enforcement.
Aurore Bergé, Minister for the Fight Against Discrimination, highlighted the universalist nature of the proposed strategy, which she described as adaptable to the fight against all forms of racism.
“This report should enable us to act more effectively in the fight against antisemitism,” Bergé stated at a press conference, adding that it is also crucial to counter the risk of antisemitism taking root once again in society.
Commissioned by the government, the report was authored by historian Marie-Anne Matard-Bonucci and senior civil servant Richard Senghor. It recommends, among other proposals, the establishment of an Institute for Training and Research on Racism and Antisemitism. The report also suggests introducing a network of designated school representatives at primary and secondary levels, as well as including questions related to the fight against antisemitism and all forms of racism in teacher recruitment exams.
Further recommendations include integrating the historical context of various racisms and antisemitisms into school curricula and training all public sector employees to recognise and respond to antisemitism and racism—following the model of current training on secularism.
Beyond education, the report stresses the importance of improving data collection on racist and antisemitic acts and calls for adjustments to criminal responses. In particular, it urges a clearer legal distinction between legitimate criticism of Zionism and its misuse as a vehicle for antisemitic rhetoric.
A draft law aimed at tackling antisemitism in higher education is also expected to be introduced in the National Assembly in the coming days, following its approval in the Senate.
