Lawmakers in France and Italy are preparing to vote on new proposed laws aimed at defining and punishing antisemitism, but the plans have triggered a wider debate over free speech and the limits of political expression.
The proposals come amid a rise in antisemitic incidents across parts of Europe following the escalation of the conflict in Gaza after October 2023. Supporters say stronger legal definitions are needed to address growing hate crimes and protect Jewish communities.
In France, the draft law includes measures that could penalise actions seen as “implicitly” justifying terrorism, calling for the destruction of a recognised state, or comparing Israel to Nazi Germany. The debate on the bill is expected to begin this week in parliament.
In Italy, lawmakers are considering a bill that would formally incorporate the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism into national law. This definition includes some forms of criticism of Israel as examples of antisemitic behaviour.
Supporters of both proposals argue that antisemitism has increased significantly in recent years and say stronger legal tools are necessary to address it. They point to rising incidents of anti-Jewish hate crimes and harassment across Europe since the start of the Gaza conflict.
However, critics warn that the laws could go too far and restrict legitimate political speech, especially criticism of Israel’s actions in the Palestinian territories. Rights groups, academics, and some politicians argue that the proposed wording is too broad and could be used to silence peaceful protest movements.
Irene Khan said the IHRA definition risks confusing lawful criticism of a state with antisemitism. She warned that vague legal language could lead to censorship of political activism, particularly in relation to Palestinian rights.
In France, the bill has also faced public resistance, with a large online petition gathering hundreds of thousands of signatures. Some lawmakers have expressed concern about balancing the fight against hate speech with protecting freedom of expression.
In Italy, the proposal has already gained significant parliamentary support and is expected to move forward in the legislative process. Critics, however, continue to raise concerns about its potential impact on free speech.
Jewish community representatives in Italy have supported the proposal, saying it is necessary to protect citizens from rising hostility. They argue that antisemitic behaviour has become more visible and threatening in recent years.
At the same time, some human rights organisations and UN experts have warned that antisemitism should not be confused with political criticism of Israel. They say that while hate speech must be addressed, legitimate protest and political expression must also be protected.
The debate reflects a broader global tension between combating discrimination and protecting freedom of speech, especially in relation to highly sensitive international conflicts.
Both the French and Italian proposals are now moving through legislative stages, and their final outcomes will likely shape how antisemitism laws are defined and enforced across Europe in the coming years.
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