European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered a strong message against antisemitism on Wednesday during a Hanukkah celebration in Brussels.
She lit a menorah at the event, showing solidarity with the Jewish community and emphasising that “there can be no place for antisemitism in Europe.”
Von der Leyen described the resurgence of antisemitism across Europe as an “old evil,” citing examples such as swastikas painted on Jewish homes, vandalised synagogues, and Jewish children being locked in schools for safety reasons.
“Today, many Jews cannot openly light a menorah, wear a kippah, or display the Star of David. Many must pass armed guards to attend synagogue and worry about sending their children to school. The darkness around us has indeed grown,” she said.
Referencing Hanukkah’s message, von der Leyen added: “One of the teachings of Hanukkah is that you can either curse the dark or light a candle. We are choosing to light a candle.” She also highlighted the importance of tackling intolerance in Europe, noting that the fight against antisemitism remains a priority.
The European Commission’s “No Place for Hate in Europe” action plan, adopted last week, urges all Europeans to stand against hatred and promote tolerance and respect. Von der Leyen said the Commission will protect places of worship, particularly synagogues, and tackle online hate speech.
Speaking Following the Bondi Beach Massacre
Von der Leyen’s remarks come just three days after 15 people were killed during a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach in Australia. Australian police have charged 24-year-old Naveed Akram with 59 offences, including 15 counts of murder. His father, 50-year-old Sajid Akram, was killed in a shootout with police at the scene.
Reports indicate that the father and son opened fire on attendees at the opening of an eight-day Hanukkah festival. They allegedly pledged allegiance to the so-called Islamic State (IS) group, and police discovered at least two improvised explosive devices in their vehicle.
According to the Anti-Defamation League, violent antisemitic incidents have risen in seven countries with the largest Jewish communities outside Israel – Germany, France, the UK, the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Argentina. In many cases, attacks more than doubled in 2023 compared with the previous year.
Von der Leyen’s speech underscores the European Commission’s commitment to combating antisemitism and radicalisation, while sending a message of international solidarity following the tragic events at Bondi Beach.
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