Progressive social justice critics driving new wave of antisemitism, Australian envoy's report argues

The ASECA Priorities report, to be released on Friday, identifies evolving threats and progress in tackling antisemitism, with envoy Jillian Segal also levelling heavy criticism at universities and the ABC.

In an interview before the report's release, Segal acknowledged antisemitism has always come from the far-right, far-left and Islamist extremism, but pointed to a newer, more palatable form. "What we have is antisemitism that I describe as much more in the middle: well-intentioned people who are concerned about the policies of the state of Israel and feel critical of them," she said. "And they transfer that criticism to Jewish members of society in Australia … through a lens of thinking that they are upholding progressive values and human rights."

The report states that Zionism, or the belief in Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state, has become a proxy for antisemitism, even though it does not equate to excluding Palestinian self-determination or sovereignty. "Increasingly, and often to avoid appearing transparently and obviously antisemitic, it has become common to vilify, target and ostracise 'Zionists' rather than 'Jews'," the report said.

Segal said Israel and its government should be subject to scrutiny and criticism like any other democratic state.

One of the more controversial recommendations is the call for an external, independent watchdog for the ABC and SBS to be installed by the federal government. Segal reported significant concern in the Jewish community about the public broadcasters' reporting on Israel and the Middle East, with allegations of disproportionate, misleading or inaccurate coverage. While the ABC and SBS have internal ombudsmen, Segal argues more serious complaints should be handled externally. The ABC and SBS defended their Middle East reporting and internal complaints processes at the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion earlier this year.

The report also recommends taxpayer funding be withheld or stripped from people or organisations that engage in or tolerate antisemitism, applying to arts, culture, sport and university research. "My principle is that government money should not be used to foment hate in any sphere," said Segal.

Universities come under fire for serious shortcomings, including failing to act on antisemitism and adopt an agreed definition. "University leaders have periodically expressed regret, but actions have been slow and inadequate on campus encampments, office invasions, activism in learning environments, and disruptive actions hostile to Jewish staff, students and visitors," the report states. Western Sydney University chancellor Professor Jennifer Westacott said there was "a collective failure to address the escalating severity of antisemitism" by the sector.

Multicultural Affairs Minister Dr Anne Aly said antisemitism was "a serious and deeply troubling challenge in Australia" and that Jewish Australians have a right to feel safe. "We must never allow international conflicts to become a licence for hatred here at home," she said. "Australians can hold different views, including on events overseas, without turning against one another."

The royal commission will deliver its final report on December 18.