EXODUS Newsletter #1

Combating Antisemitic hate crimes: Introducing the EXODUS Project

Antisemitic hate crimes remain a serious challenge to democratic societies, undermining values of non-discrimination and human dignity. Recognizing the critical need to address these issues, the EXODUS Project was launched to strengthen the criminal justice response to antisemitic crimes and enhance victim support. The project, led by the Hellenic Police, runs for two years (June 2024 to May 2026) and is funded by the Citizens, Equality, Rights, and Values (CERV) Programme of the European Union.

Objectives and priorities

EXODUS aims to establish a comprehensive framework for improving the identification, investigation, and prosecution of antisemitic hate crimes while ensuring the protection of human rights. In line with the EU Strategy on Combating Antisemitism and Fostering Jewish Life 2021-2030 (COM/2021/615 final), EXODUS promotes best practices across Europe, fostering cooperation between law enforcement, judicial authorities and civil society organizations.

The first research figures

The development of information material and tools that will contribute to the detection, monitoring and prevention of anti-Semitic phenomena is deemed necessary. However, addressing a problem begins with its identification and definition. Thus, at a first level, it was very important to analyze the term antisemitism extensively and to collect all the basic information and knowledge about the Jewish community. In this context, with the contribution of all stakeholders, the basic symbols of Jewish identity, the elements of the Jewish way of life including holidays, historical data, as well as monuments, places of worship and cultural practices and customs that define everyday life, were collected and recorded. In addition, anti-Semitic symbols were presented, including a detailed examination of anti-Semitic activity on major online platforms. Furthermore, the project has conducted an in-depth analysis of the typology of antisemitic hate crimes, encompassing verbal, physical and symbolic manifestations.

 

The first EXODUS Workshop

In Thessaloniki, from 26 to 28 January 2025, the first EXODUS Workshop was implemented, bringing together key stakeholders to strengthen cooperation, develop effective practices on anti-Semitic behavior and explore the European dimension of anti-Semitism. Furthermore, discussions focused on the operational needs as well as on the importance of education and specialized training for law enforcement officers and judicial authorities, aiming to enhance their capacity to identify and investigate antisemitic hate crimes effectively.

The project continues its effort in that direction through building a White-Paper on anti-Semitic crimes that will include clear and concrete guidance for all stakeholders to address anti-Semitic criminality and hate speech.

Stay tuned for more updates on EXODUS as we work together to promote the values of equality, tolerance, and human rights across Europe.