- Australia appoints special envoy to tackle antisemitism
- Lawyer and businesswoman Jillian Segal will consult with community leaders and discrimination experts to advise the government
- A special envoy to address Islamophobia will also be appointed soon
- The appointment comes amid rising tensions over the Israel-Gaza war
Australia appoints special envoy to tackle antisemitism
Australia has appointed a special envoy to combat antisemitism and promote social cohesion amid rising tensions over the Israel-Gaza war. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that lawyer and businesswoman Jillian Segal will consult with community leaders and discrimination experts to advise the government. A special envoy to address Islamophobia will also be appointed soon.
The Israel-Gaza conflict has sparked protests from Jewish and Muslim communities in Australia and increased incidents of antisemitism and Islamophobia. Albanese emphasised the need for unity during these times, noting that Australians are deeply concerned and hurting. Segal, who has extensive experience in Jewish community leadership, called combating antisemitism crucial, citing a 700% rise in incidents since the conflict began.
Segal’s appointment has been welcomed by the national peak body for the Australian Jewish community, which praised her deep knowledge and energy. However, some groups, like the Australian Palestine Advocacy Network, worry it might worsen divisions by conflating antisemitism with criticism of Israel.
The Australian government supports a two-state solution and has voiced concerns about Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The governing Labor party has faced internal tensions, with a senator resigning over the party’s stance on the conflict and calling for recognition of Palestinian statehood.
There is no place for violence, hatred or discrimination of any kind in Australia.
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) July 9, 2024
And as part of my Government's work to promote social cohesion, we have appointed Jillian Segal AO as Special Envoy to combat Antisemitism. pic.twitter.com/e1OMFS76Ih