Australia probe into antisemitism flags surge in harassment of Jewish witnesses

An inquiry into antisemitism in Australia has condemned a surge in online abuse directed at Jewish witnesses giving evidence, with its chair warning that participants are being subjected to harassment and intimidation.

The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion was established following a deadly attack at a Sydney Hanukkah celebration in December, in which two gunmen, allegedly inspired by the Islamic State group, killed 15 people, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Royal commissions are the highest form of public inquiry in Australia.

Hearings began on May 4, examining antisemitism across Australian institutions and wider society. The commission is being led by former High Court judge Virginia Bell.

Bell said witnesses who have testified about their experiences have since faced a wave of online hostility.

“We have received reports from a number of witnesses concerning a dramatic increase in online hate messages after they have given evidence,” Bell said.

She criticised the nature of the abuse directed at members of the Jewish community.

“Quite what this undiluted level of hatred and bigotry directed towards members of the Jewish community is thought to benefit by those who post these remarks is lost on me,” she added.

The commission said it was documenting offensive material posted online and had, in one instance, referred harassment to police. It said the behaviour was informing its wider work on understanding antisemitism in Australian society.

“The commission has, as one of its principal objects, understanding and assessing the lived experience of antisemitism by members of the Jewish community and it is being informed by conduct of this character,” she said.

Earlier in the hearings, authorities charged a 68-year-old man after he allegedly wore a shirt displaying a prohibited Nazi symbol outside the commission’s hearings in Sydney.

Police said the design appeared to combine a Star of David over a swastika, along with the slogan: “Antisemitism. Proud to be accused. Speak up!”

The commission said it was “appalled” by the incident and reiterated that safeguards were in place for witnesses attending hearings.

“The royal commission is determined to investigate antisemitism in Australia without fear or intimidation,” the statement said.