The royal commission revealed the breadth of antisemitism in Australia – but key opportunities were missed | Michael Visontay
Key gatekeepers, and even the prime minister, should have faced more questions over what can be done to address rising hatred From the moment the prime minister, Anthony Albanese, belatedly announced the royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion, he clearly wanted the inquiry to be short and tightly focussed. No detours. By setting Commissioner Virginia Bell a deadline of December 14…
The royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion in Australia concluded, revealing the extent of hostility towards Jews across various sectors of society. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese set a deadline for the commission to deliver its report by December 14, signaling his impatience for a concise inquiry. The public hearings lasted less than four months, uncovering instances of antisemitism in children's sporting fields, schools, universities, the public service, union movement, arts and entertainment, politics, and even healthcare.
Testimonies highlighted the intensity of hatred not only directed at Jews but also towards witnesses who spoke out. The commission missed opportunities to question key gatekeepers, such as heads of the arts and cultural sector, Creative Australia, and the Sydney Biennale Board. Notably, the commission did not interrogate the connection between Zionism and antisemitic rhetoric, despite activist Marcia Langton experiencing the term "Zio" for expressing support of Jewish Australians.
A significant observation was the PM's admission of potential measures to address antisemitism, providing the commission with a reason to question him on his plans. The commission's findings underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to combat this growing issue in Australian society.
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