Italy divided over proposed antisemitism bill and IHRA definition

Italy's Parliament is deeply divided over a proposed antisemitism bill that seeks to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. The bill, which has already passed the Senate, is scheduled for discussion in the Chamber of Deputies on October 2.

Senator for life Liliana Segre has issued an appeal for parliamentary unity, urging all parties to approve the measure with modifications if necessary to ensure it does not stifle political criticism of the Israeli government. Segre expressed incredulity at the political divisions, emphasizing that criticizing the actions of the State of Israel should not be equated with antisemitism.

The opposition is fractured on the issue. The Five Star Movement and the Green Left Alliance (AVS) have voted against the bill, while the Democratic Party (PD) has seen internal splits; some members support the measure, while others, including party leadership, have expressed concerns regarding freedom of expression. Protests have also emerged in various Italian cities, including Monza, Ravenna, and Varese, where activists argue the law could act as a “gag rule” against solidarity with Palestine and legitimate political dissent.