There is much in Jillian Segal’s report that deserves support. But sincere humanitarian concern and susceptibility to antisemitism are not the same things
The antisemitic massacre at Bondi exposed a terrifying truth: that Jewish Australians can no longer take their safety for granted. The doxing, cancellation, threats and vilification of Jewish artists, lawyers, doctors, nurses, patients and academics since October 2023 have been virulent and traumatising for many Jews. Combating hatred, intimidation and violence against Jewish Australians is an urgent national responsibility.
That makes the report from Australia’s special envoy to combat antisemitism, Jillian Segal, an important intervention. But a strategy motivated by legitimate fears can still risk making the problem harder to solve.
George Newhouse AM is a human rights lawyer and former mayor of Waverley council in Sydney