MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Officials leading a major Australian investigation into antisemitism announced Tuesday that Jewish individuals who testified before the commission are experiencing online harassment and intimidation.
The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion was established following a December attack where two gunmen, reportedly motivated by the Islamic State group, killed 15 people during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney. These royal commissions represent Australia’s most significant type of public investigation.
Virginia Bell, a former High Court judge leading the commission, reported that Jewish individuals who shared their experiences with antisemitism during public sessions that started May 4 have faced online “harassment and intimidation.”
“We have received reports from a number of witnesses concerning a dramatic increase in online hate messages after they have given evidence,” Bell said.
“Quite what this undiluted level of hatred and bigotry directed towards members of the Jewish community is thought to benefit by those who post these remarks is lost on me,” she added.
Bell noted the commission is documenting these “offensive social media posts,” and authorities have been contacted about at least one harassment case.
“The commission has, as one of its principal objects, understanding and assessing the lived experience of antisemitism by members of the Jewish community and it is being informed by conduct of this character,” she said.
The initial two weeks of proceedings examined how widespread antisemitism is within Australia’s organizations and broader society.
During the opening week of testimony, authorities arrested a 68-year-old man for displaying a shirt featuring a “prohibited Nazi symbol” near the commission building in Sydney, according to police.
The design appeared to incorporate a Star of David superimposed over a swastika with the slogan: “Antisemitism. Proud to be accused. Speak up!”
Commission officials released a statement expressing they were “appalled” that someone wore an “antisemitic shirt” near their location. They reassured witnesses that security measures were implemented around the facility.
“The royal commission is determined to investigate antisemitism in Australia without fear or intimidation,” the statement said.
