Oxford University adopts IHRA definition of antisemitism

“This marks a milestone in the university’s efforts to combat antisemitism, and serves as a significant step in safeguarding Jews on campus. We look forward to working with the university to implement further provisions for its Jewish students.”

The Union of Jewish Students added: “We are delighted that the University of Oxford has joined the growing list of UK universities adopting the IHRA definition of antisemitism. We want to thank Jewish students for their hard work, determination and for pressuring the university on this matter.

 “Both the University of Oxford and University of Cambridge have taken this step to support their Jewish students. This should be an example to all other higher education institutes of the importance of adopting this definition.”

The adoption of the IHRA definition comes after a recent report by the Community Security Trust  showed a rise in reported student antisemitism and a call universities to adopt the international definition of antisemitism.

The Education Secretary had earlier warned that universities could face cuts if they refused to adopt the working definition of antisemitism before the end of the year.

Earlier this month the Premier League and 18 clubs in the top football division confirmed they had adopted IHRA.

The JC also revealed how 18 out of 24 Russell Group universities had adopted the definition - a figure that has now increased.

Criticism by individual academics of the definition - usually on claims that free speech has been affected - has proven to be largely ineffective.