List of combating antisemitism envoys
Antisemitism envoys are official representatives appointed by governments or international organizations to address and combat antisemitism. Their responsibilities typically include developing and implementing policies, monitoring antisemitic incidents, promoting Holocaust education, advancing legislation, and fostering cooperation with Jewish organizations and other relevant bodies.
As of July 2024, at least 30 countries worldwide have appointed special envoys or coordinators dedicated to combating antisemitism. In 2019, the Forum of Special Envoys and Coordinators Combating Antisemitism was established under the auspices of the World Jewish Congress to serve as a platform for intergovernmental cooperation, information sharing, and coordination of initiatives.
Australia
On 9 July 2024, the Australian government appointed lawyer, business executive, and President of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, Jillian Segal as the nation's inaugural Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the appointment as a "step in easing the tensions that we see playing out as a result of the devastating conflict in the Middle East".Canada
In 2020, former attorney-general Irwin Cotler was appointed Canada's first special envoy for Holocaust remembrance and combatting antisemitism. He served until October 2023 and was replaced by diplomat Deborah Lyons. Lyons is to serve a two-year period.European Union
In October 2015, the European Commission created the new Antisemitism coordinator position in response to rising antisemitism in Europe. As a career EC bureaucrat, German civil servant Katharina von Schnurbein was appointed by then First Vice-president Frans Timmermans for the position in December 2015.Her key responsibilities are to liaise with European Jewish communities and bodies and to propose and implement policies to address Antisemitism, promote Holocaust education, and foster Jewish life.