Canada's antisemitism guide will 'silence criticism of Israel'

Jewish groups say the guide creates a 'chilling effect' on debate over Israel's policies.

A new guide on antisemitism that was developed by the Canadian government is being criticized by Jewish groups, who say it will silence criticism of Israel.

The guide, which was released by the Canadian Ministry of Justice in July, is intended to help people identify and combat antisemitism. However, Jewish groups say that the guide conflates criticism of Israel with antisemitism, and that it will have a chilling effect on debate over Israel's policies.

One of the most controversial aspects of the guide is its definition of antisemitism. The guide defines antisemitism as "prejudice, hatred or discrimination against Jews or Jewish people." However, Jewish groups say that this definition is too broad, and that it could be used to silence criticism of Israel that is not motivated by antisemitism.

For example, the guide states that it is antisemitic to say that "Israel is a racist endeavor." However, Jewish groups say that this statement is not necessarily antisemitic, and that it could be made by someone who is simply critical of Israel's policies.

Jewish groups are also concerned about the guide's section on "indirect antisemitism." The guide states that indirect antisemitism can include "denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination" or "applying double standards to Israel." Jewish groups say that this section is too vague, and that it could be used to silence criticism of Israel that is legitimate.

The Canadian government has defended the guide, saying that it is necessary to combat the rise of antisemitism. However, Jewish groups say that the guide goes too far, and that it will have a negative impact on free speech.

The debate over the guide is likely to continue. Jewish groups are calling on the Canadian government to revise the guide, while the government is defending the guide's provisions.

In the meantime, the guide is raising concerns about the future of free speech in Canada. Jewish groups are worried that the guide will be used to silence criticism of Israel, while the government insists that the guide is necessary to combat antisemitism.