Are there any existing regulations or policies that you believe have been particularly effective—or ineffective—in addressing online antisemitism?

Yes, there are several existing regulations and strategies that have played important roles in addressing online antisemitism within the European Union—most notably the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the EU Strategy on Combating Antisemitism and Fostering Jewish Life (2021–2030).

The DSA came into force in 2023 and aims to create a safer digital space by holding online platforms more accountable for the content they host. It has been particularly effective in combating online antisemitism: it requires transparency from platforms, the removal of illegal content, and mandates that they conduct risk assessments.

How can digital literacy and media education help prevent the spread of antisemitic and other extremist ideologies?

Digital literacy and media education are essential tools in preventing the spread of antisemitic and other extremist ideologies online. One of the most effective ways they do this is by empowering students to critically engage with the content they consume—especially on fast-paced, often unregulated platforms such as TikTok and Instagram.

Teaching students how to fact-check online content is a crucial first step. In an age where misinformation spreads quickly and algorithms often amplify sensational or provocative content, the ability to verify sources, check dates, and understand context is vital. When students learn how to trace the origins of claims and recognize manipulation tactics (such as misleading headlines, out-of-context quotes, or deepfakes), they become more resilient against propaganda—including antisemitic conspiracy theories or historical denialism.

Another important area is raising awareness of the risks associated with dark humour—especially in meme culture and online communities where offensive jokes are often dismissed as “just humour.” While some users may share such content ironically or without malicious intent, such jokes can normalize hate speech and desensitize audiences to dangerous ideologies. In particular, antisemitic memes or jokes that rely on stereotypes or Holocaust denial can serve as entry points into more radical spaces, where hate is more overtly promoted.

By helping students understand the line between satire and incitement, educators can teach them to question the purpose and impact of the content they encounter or share. It’s not just about avoiding offensive material—it’s about recognizing when humour is being used to spread hate under the radar.

Ultimately, digital literacy and media education help young people to:

• Develop critical thinking skills that reduce susceptibility to manipulation.
• Recognize and challenge hate speech, even when it’s disguised as entertainment.
• Become responsible digital citizens who think before they share and understand the real-world consequences of online actions.

When students can navigate digital spaces with awareness and skepticism, they’re far less likely to be influenced by extremist ideologies—and more likely to play an active role in resisting them.

What are the most effective ways for individuals, educators, and policymakers to challenge antisemitism today?

One of the most effective ways for individuals, educators, and policymakers to challenge antisemitism today is by promoting education, empathy, and resilience—with a strong emphasis on learning about Jewish life, culture, and history.

Understanding the richness and diversity of Jewish life is key to breaking down stereotypes. Individuals can challenge antisemitism by:

• Educating themselves about Jewish traditions, history, and modern experiences—not just about the Holocaust, but also about Jewish contributions to society.
• Following educational content creators, such as the Italian TikTok account @askajew, which offers an accessible and often humorous way to learn about Judaism, combat misconceptions, and humanize Jewish identity online.
• Speaking out when they witness antisemitism, online or offline, and supporting Jewish communities through solidarity and allyship.

Educators play a powerful role in shaping perspectives. The most impactful strategies include:

• Incorporating Jewish history and culture into the broader curriculum—not only focusing on antisemitism or the Holocaust but also celebrating Jewish life, both past and present. This is essential for creating a well-rounded and inclusive educational experience. Too often, Jewish identity is only introduced in the context of trauma or persecution. While it is vital to teach about the Holocaust and antisemitism, it is equally important to showcase the richness, diversity, and continuity of Jewish culture, thought, and contributions to society.

One organization leading this effort in Italy is the Centro di Documentazione Ebraica Contemporanea (CDEC). Through its robust educational programs, CDEC offers resources, training, and workshops for teachers, students, and the general public that go far beyond Holocaust education. Their work emphasizes a deep, nuanced understanding of Jewish life, spanning history, religion, cultural traditions, literature, and contemporary Jewish experiences.

CDEC’s training division, headed by Patrizia Baldi, provides professional development for educators, offering tools to:

• Teach about Jewish culture in a contextual and respectful way.
• Explore the continuity of Jewish presence in Italy, highlighting the longstanding and evolving role of Jewish communities throughout centuries.
• Address modern-day antisemitism by rooting discussions in knowledge, empathy, and historical accuracy, rather than fear-based approaches.

CDEC also encourages student engagement through guided visits, digital archives, and interactive activities that personalize Jewish history and help students see it as part of a shared cultural heritage. By doing so, it helps foster respectful curiosity and cultural literacy, both of which are critical for building resilience against hate.

Incorporating resources like those offered by CDEC into mainstream curricula ensures that Jewish identity is seen as living, diverse, and integrated—not marginal or historical. It empowers young people with the knowledge and empathy to not only recognize antisemitism, but to become active allies in standing against it.

• Using initiatives like the European Day of Jewish Culture to introduce students to real-life stories, art, food, and traditions that foster a sense of connection and curiosity rather than fear or “othering.”
• Building critical thinking skills so students can recognize and challenge antisemitic tropes, conspiracy theories, and hate speech—especially on social media.

Do you see any promising initiatives, whether in law, technology, or education, that offer hope in the fight against antisemitism?

In the fight against antisemitism, various initiatives across legal, cultural, and educational spheres have shown promise. Notably, the Digital Services Act (DSA), the European Day of Jewish Culture, and the Facing Facts program have been instrumental. Additionally, digital platforms like TikTok have become arenas where creators actively engage in combating antisemitism and promoting understanding.

The DSA is a significant legislative effort by the European Union to regulate online platforms, aiming to create safer digital environments. It mandates that large online platforms assess and mitigate systemic risks, including the dissemination of illegal content such as hate speech and antisemitism. By enforcing transparency in content moderation and requiring the swift removal of illegal content, the DSA holds platforms accountable and encourages proactive measures against online hate.

The European Day of Jewish Culture is an annual event celebrated across Europe, focusing on the diversity and richness of Jewish heritage. By organizing cultural activities, exhibitions, and educational programs, this initiative fosters dialogue and understanding among diverse communities. Highlighting Jewish contributions to European society helps challenge stereotypes and combat antisemitism through positive engagement and education.

Facing Facts is an educational program that provides training to professionals and civil society organizations on identifying, monitoring, and responding to hate crimes, including antisemitism. By emphasizing data collection, victim support, and community engagement, Facing Facts enhances the capacity of various stakeholders to address hate incidents effectively. Its cross-sectoral approach ensures a comprehensive response to antisemitism, bridging gaps between communities, authorities, and NGOs.

Furthermore, social media platforms like TikTok have become influential spaces for education and advocacy. Creators such as Ask a Jew (@askajew) use these platforms to address misconceptions and answer questions about Jewish culture and religion. By engaging directly with audiences, they promote understanding and challenge antisemitic narratives.