OSCE conference: Switzerland calls for concrete measures to combat antisemitism

The OSCE conference on addressing antisemitism took place at a time when the number of antisemitic incidents in Switzerland and most other OSCE states has risen sharply. The main focus of the conference was therefore on the question of what measures are to be taken to combat antisemitism more effectively. Declarations against antisemitism are no longer sufficient. Our actions, not our words, define us," said Ambassador Simon Geissbühler, head of the FDFA's Peace and Human Rights Division, who led the Swiss delegation at the conference. Speaking in Malta, Geissbühler outlined Switzerland's recent measures to tackle antisemitism at federal, cantonal and communal levels – including enhanced security for Jewish institutions, plans to draw up a national strategy against antisemitism and racism, innovative educational projects, and collaboration between the FDFA, the City of Bern, and civil society to create a memorial in Bern for the victims of National Socialism.

The participating states agreed to improve their coordination of action against antisemitism within the OSCE area, to facilitate greater knowledge-sharing and collaboration, and to step up their efforts to curb antisemitism on social media and promote interreligious and intercultural dialogue.

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