The Union of Italian Jewish Communities welcomes the outcome of the Senate vote on the bill to combat antisemitism and the adoption of the IHRA working definition. This represents a victory for all segments of civil society, not just the Jewish community.
The measure, approved after a lengthy and intense debate in the Senate, is the result of several parliamentary initiatives by both the majority and the opposition, who succeeded in reaching a unified and synthesised position. It represents a complex process, requiring responsibility and mediation skills, and demonstrates an awareness of the need to provide the country with a clear and shared regulatory framework.
We express our appreciation for the effort and collaboration among the various political parties, who have acted with institutional commitment. Significant amendments were approved, and the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism, already adopted by numerous countries, including non-European ones, and considered essential by Italian Jewish institutions, was confirmed as the reference point.
Anti-Semitism is not an issue that concerns Jews alone: it is a structural poison in our society, a direct threat to democratic principles and civil coexistence.
Throughout this process, the UCEI has closely followed the parliamentary process, in constant dialogue with the National Coordinator for the Fight against Anti-Semitism, General Angelosanto, and the Contemporary Jewish Documentation Center Foundation (CDEC).
The convergence seen today, unfortunately less broad than hoped, represents a strong and unequivocal signal: combating anti-Jewish hatred is a shared national priority. The UCEI considers this an important starting point to complement other initiatives aimed at raising awareness across all sectors of civil society. When institutions can speak with one voice on fundamental values, the entire democratic system of the country is strengthened. While awaiting final passage in the Chamber, we thank the senators who attended and for their concrete commitment to parliamentary work: Senate President La Russa, Minister Ciriani, and Senators Balboni, Delrio, Gasparri, Gelmini, Mieli, Malan, Pirovano, Romeo, and Scalfarotto.

