In the pursuit of a “Netherlands without antisemitism,” the Dutch government has unveiled a new national strategy for combating antisemitism, to last from 2024 to 2030.
Among other things, the strategy involves the release of an additional €4.5 million for tackling antisemitism from 2025, and the establishment of a “Taskforce for Combating Antisemitism.
The new strategy is to take a multi-year approach, and the cabinet will review its efficacy and take extra measures on a yearly basis. It is to be coordinated by the Justice and Security Ministry, and the National Coordinator for Combating Antisemitism is to play a central role in advising the cabinet, as well as ensuring implementation of policy.
“With the current strategy, the government makes it clear that the fight against antisemitism concerns all Dutch people,” the Cabinet said. “We all have a responsibility, as a society, to combat antisemitism and the insecurity of Jews. The Netherlands stands for an open, reasonable, and tolerant society. Jewish life is a very explicit part of that.”
The new Taskforce, led by the Justice and Security Ministry, will be established immediately and last for at least a year. It will have a particular focus on antisemitism within university settings, and will take on tasks such as the banning of antisemitic speakers at colleges.
The cabinet added that the Taskforce will consist of representatives from a range of ministries, including mayors, the education sector, the sports sector, the cultural sector, the public transport sector, and other social parties. Representatives of the Jewish community will also form part of the Taskforce.
