The EFL will adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism, as part of its ongoing commitment to combat discrimination of all forms, across the game.
Working in conjunction with Kick it Out and Lord Mann, the UK Government’s Independent Adviser on Antisemitism, the EFL joins over 30 countries, major political parties, local authorities, and fellow members of football family in its adoption of the definition.
The antisemitism definition will be formally updated in the EFL’s Code of Practice which underpins the League’s inclusion and anti-discrimination initiatives.
Trevor Birch, EFL Chief Executive said: “Discrimination has no place in football or society, and today on Holocaust Memorial Day, the EFL is adopting the IHRA’s definition as part of an ongoing, international effort to combat antisemitism. Prejudice and the language of hatred must be challenged by us all and the EFL remains steadfast in its resolve to help foster equality throughout our game and unity in our communities.”
Sanjay Bhandari, Kick It Out Chair, said: “It’s great to see the EFL’s commitment to tackling antisemitism. We know that antisemitism is still a prominent issue in society. But, football has the power to inspire change and that’s what we want to see through clubs adopting the IHRA definition of antisemitism. The reach of football clubs is vast and their messages are seen by millions of supporters. So, the more people we can reach and educate, the more impact we can have as a society in wiping out antisemitism for good.”
Lord Mann, HM Government's Independent Adviser on Antisemitism, said: “I welcome the commitment taken by The English Football League by adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Definition of Antisemitism. This is a huge step for English Football reaching every corner of the United Kingdom. I thank the EFL for their leadership.”
Jonathan Goldstein, Chair of the Jewish Leadership Council, said: “We thank The English Football League for joining the growing list of respected institutions in adopting the IHRA definition of Antisemitism. Football inspires millions across our country and the world and the impact of this adoption will be felt far and wide. It will help protect Jewish fans and inform and educate others in what modern anti-Jewish racism can look like and how important it is to call it out.”
