Isle of Man adopts IHRA antisemitism definition on Holocaust Memorial Day
Crown Dependency aligns with UK approach as ministers back IHRA definition to combat antisemitism and protect Jewish life
The Isle of Man Government has formally adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism, marking the decision on Holocaust Memorial Day.
Ministers agreed the move would support inclusive communities on the Island, despite its small Jewish population, and help authorities identify and respond to antisemitic language or behaviour should it arise.
The IHRA definition states: “Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. 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.”
The Council of Ministers said formal adoption of the definition reflects the Isle of Man’s long-standing practice of aligning with the UK Government’s wider policy approach. The definition is non-legally binding and does not create new legal obligations or override existing protections for freedom of expression.
The Commonwealth Jewish Council (CJC) welcomed the decision, saying it was “delighted to welcome the decision by the Government of the Isle of Man to adopt the internationally recognised definition of Antisemitism, developed by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA).”
In a statement issued on Holocaust Memorial Day, the CJC said the announcement came on “this most important of dates, Holocaust Memorial Day, when we remember the six million Jewish men, women and children who were murdered, and the millions more murdered under Nazi persecution.”
The organisation added: “The CJC extends our warmest gratitude to the Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK, and all those in the Government who ensured that this important step for their local Jewish community, and the important example to the global community, was able to become policy.”
The Island already has anti-discrimination legislation in place. The Equality Act 2017 prohibits discrimination, harassment and victimisation on grounds including race and religion or belief.
As a Crown Dependency, the Isle of Man cannot become a formal member of the IHRA, but it is able to adopt the working definition independently. The definition has been adopted by 46 countries, more than 1,200 public bodies and institutions, the European Parliament and the UK Government. It is also backed by all three main UK political parties.
The announcement coincided with Holocaust Memorial Day commemorations on the Island. On Tuesday evening, Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK was set to take part in a “Candle in the Window” act of remembrance, alongside the Lieutenant Governor and Bishop Patricia Hillas, inviting residents to light a candle at 8pm as a moment of reflection and unity.
The UK Government adopted the IHRA definition in 2016, with the Welsh Senedd, Scottish Parliament and Northern Ireland Assembly also formally endorsing it.
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