Left Party: Criticism over anti-Semitism resolution

A resolution by the Left Party on anti-Semitism sparked heated debate. Party leader Ines Schwerdtner indicated that she would have preferred a more in-depth debate within the party.

Following criticism of a Left Party resolution on anti-Semitism , the party leadership intends to seek dialogue with the Jewish community. There have also been positive reactions from Jewish groups, said party leader Ines Schwerdtner in Berlin. "We will also seek contact and engage with everyone affected."

At the Left Party's congress in Chemnitz, a narrow majority opposed the IHRA definition of antisemitism used in Germany and instead supported the so-called Jerusalem Declaration. This defines antisemitism more narrowly and allows more scope for criticism of Israeli policies. The Central Council of Jews in Germany considers this to be incorrect.

The Federal Government Commissioner for Anti-Semitism, Felix Klein, also criticized the resolution. "The IHRA definition is a valuable tool against anti-Semitism. Opponents of the definition claim that it prevents criticism of the State of Israel . I would like to make one thing very clear: The definition itself states that criticism of Israel is perfectly permissible and not necessarily to be condemned as anti-Semitic," Klein told the German editorial network.

Some within the party also distanced themselves from the decision, including Bundestag Vice President Bodo Ramelow. He, in turn, was criticized on social media for this. Schwerdtner expressed regret for this. She said she would have liked more time for debate within the party.

One thing is clear: “The protection of Jewish life and Israel’s right to exist on the one hand, and at the same time the necessary protest against war crimes, must both have a place not only in our party, but also in public perception.”

Schwerdtner also emphasized, however: "If we as a party criticize the right-wing Israeli government and its war crimes, that is not anti-Semitism." She referred to CDU/CSU parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn, who had said that there appeared to be a majority in the Left Party for anti-Israeli anti-Semitism. "This is precisely how the accusation of anti-Semitism is being misused, and I believe that does not do justice to the suffering of the people," said the Left Party leader.