Israeli Ambassador urges Ukraine to adopt IHRA definition of anti-Semitism

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Israel to Ukraine Joel Lion. Photo: lb.ua

On May 4, 2020, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Israel to Ukraine Joel Lion called on the Ukrainian authorities to adopt at the legislative level a definition of anti-Semitism of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA).

“I commend the decision of Serbia to adopt the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism and once again call upon Ukraine, the Cabinet of Ministers, President Vladimir Zelensky, the parliament to accept it. A clear definition helps better fight anti-Semitism,” Lion wrote on his Twitter account.

According to the IHRA, anti-Semitism is "a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews."

The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance believes that "Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”

Zelensky said earlier that anti-Semitism hype in Ukraine is a provocation. The President reiterated that the Ukrainian authorities are determined to prevent crimes related to anti-Semitism, xenophobia and intolerance in the country.

Read also

In Ukraine, Trump’s 'spiritual advisor' reassured of religious freedom

Pastor Mark Burns stated that Ukraine, despite the war, is a "beacon of religious freedom."

Lavra brethren congratulate Metropolitan Pavel on 31 years as abbot

The monks of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra have expressed hope that they will soon be able to pray again with their abbot.

Amsterdam: Intrusion into Lavra Caves – a return to Soviet-era persecution

International lawyer Robert Amsterdam has condemned the actions of Ukraine’s Ministry of Culture regarding the inspection of holy relics in the Caves of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, calling it a violation of religious freedom.

Over 20 EU states condemn Hungary for ban on LGBT propaganda among children

“This restricts the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression,” diplomats state in a joint declaration.

His Beatitude officiates consecration of Bishop of Rakhiv

At the Church of St. Agapitus in the Lavra, the Primate of the UOC ordained a vicar for the Khust Eparchy.

Met Victor: It is painful to see Lavra's relics turned into test subjects

According to the bishop, there is particular concern over how members of the scientific commission will handle the holy relics.