New York, 4 April 2025 – The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, Under-Secretary-General Miguel Ángel Moratinos, and the Acting Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, Under-Secretary-General Virginia Gamba, announced today they are joining efforts to roll-out the implementation of the first-ever United Nations (UN) Action Plan to Enhance Monitoring and Response to Antisemitism. Launched in January 2025, and against the backdrop of growing antisemitism, deepening political and societal tensions, and resurgence of insidious centuries-old myths, the Action Plan is guided by the leadership of the United Nations Secretary-General and builds upon the numerous efforts undertaken by the United Nations in addressing antisemitism and other forms of hatred over the past decades. The Action Plan is focused on the United Nations system.
Responding to antisemitism continues to be of paramount importance as it threatens the fundamental principles of equality, justice, human safety, and human dignity for all. As one of the first practical steps in the implementation of the Action Plan, the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and the Office of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide are partnering to develop a dedicated on-line learning module to be hosted by the UN System Staff College. The module would further strengthen the understanding of antisemitism and equip users with knowledge and tools to identify and respond to it.
“The United Nations was created in the aftermath of the Holocaust. Our efforts to respond and combat antisemitism, as well as all other manifestations of extremism and incitement to any religious hatred and violence, remain unwavering and are needed more than ever before. Our joint efforts in spearheading the implementation of the Action Plan will contribute to and build on the broader framework of the United Nations ‘ work in addressing identity-based hatred,” explained USG Moratinos.
A crucial aspect of responding to antisemitism lies in actively countering and debunking the harmful stereotypes that perpetuate it. These stereotypes, often rooted in centuries-old conspiracy theories and myths, create a climate of fear and distrust. They foster collective blame towards Jewish communities, based on false narratives or perceived collective responsibility for various societal issues or actions. Dangerously, they can also lead to denial or distortion of the Holocaust.
“Being able to better recognize manifestations of antisemitism and these harmful stereotypes, and to have more knowledge to counter it, will further strengthen the work of UN colleagues globally. We must also never forget that intolerance, discrimination and attacks against one religious community, lead to intolerance, discrimination and attacks on others as well,” added USG Gamba.
The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and the Office of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide are looking forward to working together in coordination with relevant UN entities on launching a series of informal briefings, and engage with Member States and relevant stakeholders to exchange views on good practices in addressing antisemitism.
Access the United Nations (UN) Action Plan to Enhance Monitoring and Response to Antisemitism:
https://www.unaoc.org/resource/action-plan-antisemitism/
For any queries please contact:
Ms. Nihal Saad, Director of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
Email: saadn@un.org
https://www.unaoc.org
Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect
Email: osapg@un.org
https://www.un.org/en/genocide-prevention/