Online Harassment Shadows Antisemitism Inquiry in Australia

The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion in Australia faces challenges as Jewish witnesses endure online harassment. Initiated after a tragic attack at a Sydney Hanukkah event, the commission seeks to assess antisemitism's prevalence. Witnesses report rising online abuse, with authorities taking steps to address these threats.

Jewish witnesses involved in Australia's Royal Commission into antisemitism are enduring a surge of online harassment, the inquiry's head disclosed Tuesday, condemning the vitriol. The Royal Commission was founded following a deadly assault allegedly inspired by the Islamic State at a Sydney Hanukkah celebration.

Virginia Bell, former High Court judge leading the commission, highlighted the escalation of online hate targeting witnesses since the inquiry's public hearings opened on May 4. Reports of online intimidation have surfaced, leading to police involvement in some instances.

The commission, focusing on understanding antisemitism's impacts on the Jewish community, is documenting offensive social media content. A recent incident involved charging an individual who displayed a contentious symbol outside the hearings, underscoring the challenges faced in addressing antisemitic actions.