Consultation on UEL's Antisemitism Statement
5 November 2024
The University recently conducted a review of our Position Statements and Charter Marks, and one of the conclusions was that the continued adoption of the University’s version of the IHRA working definition of antisemitism should be reviewed.
We are therefore conducting a second consultation on our current statement of antisemitism from staff, UEL Students' Union and external stakeholders.
Why we’re reviewing the IHRA definition of antisemitism
The University has not generally adopted definitions of all forms of prejudice and discrimination or signed up to a detailed form of words defining racism, sexism, Islamophobia or similar concepts.
We have received a number of submissions and correspondence from staff expressing strong reservations about adopting the IHRA definition of antisemitism, quoting concerns about the potential stifling of freedom of speech. It has also been advocated that an antisemitism statement could be embraced within a policy and statement on antidiscrimination rather than singled out as a separate issue.
The University considers that the function of any definition of antisemitism should be educative and not prescriptive. Any definition adopted should serve to illuminate debate and discussion of what constitutes antisemitism with a view to eliminating it and not be regarded as a standard in disciplinary procedures or for blocking events. Consideration is also being given to recognising a range of definitions of antisemitism and extending the possibility of adopting other statements around specific definitions on issues such as racism, sexism or Islamophobia.
It is essential to note that the University is not stepping back or reducing in any way its approach to tackling antisemitism or any other form of discrimination. We are seeking advice on the best approach to be adopted. The consultation will be open until 16 of December 2024.
Update on the Outcome of the Consultation on UEL’s Antisemitism Statement
5 March 2025
The University of East London recently conducted a review of its Position Statements and Charter Marks, which led to the decision to reassess the continued adoption of UEL’s version of the IHRA working definition of antisemitism. As part of this process, a second consultation was conducted, gathering feedback from staff, the UEL Students’ Union, and external parties.
The consultation was closed in December 2024, with valuable contributions gathered from staff, the UELSU , and external parties. After careful review and discussion, the Academic Board, on 26 February 2025, has approved the Anti-discrimination Statement, the Antisemitism Statement and the Islamophobia Statement. These statements reaffirm UEL’s commitment to ensuring a welcoming, inclusive and respectful environment for all members of our community.