The Organization of American States (OAS) Commissioner on Anti-Semitism recently delivered remarks at the U.S. Holocaust Museum, reflecting on the challenges and achievements during their term. The Commissioner, appointed in October 2021, highlighted the global rise in antisemitism, particularly in the Southern Hemisphere, as a significant concern.
The OAS, established in 1948 with its charter signed in Bogotá, Colombia, aims to promote peace and justice among its member states. It includes all independent states of the American continent and has 69 permanent observer states along with the European Union.
In July 2021, General Secretary Luis Almagro created the position of Commissioner to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism. This initiative aligns with similar efforts by other international bodies such as the European Commission and Canada. The role emphasizes combating antisemitism from a broader perspective beyond Jewish communities alone.
The Commissioner noted that their tenure began amid the COVID-19 pandemic when antisemitic rhetoric surged globally. They engaged with Jewish communities across various countries and coordinated efforts with counterparts from other international organizations.
Throughout their term, they focused on fostering education and awareness about antisemitism. This included creating a database for antisemitic incidents and encouraging OAS member states to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of antisemitism.
In 2023, an escalation in antisemitic actions followed events involving Israel and Hamas. The Commissioner emphasized the need for governments to ensure safety for Jewish communities worldwide.
Efforts were made to combat online hate speech by engaging with social media platforms like Meta and TikTok to update content policies. In Brazil, collaboration with judicial authorities helped address legal definitions of antisemitism.
As their first term concludes this year, over 40 countries have adopted IHRA's definition of antisemitism, including several in the Americas. The Commissioner stressed that fighting antisemitism is essential for global peace and security.
"The road is long," they stated but expressed optimism about progress towards a more respectful world embracing diversity.