PRESS RELEASE
In the framework of the EXODUS EU Project, the Center for Security Studies, as a partner in the project, participated in the design and implementation of a Workshop on the fight against anti-Semitic crimes, which took place in Thessaloniki from 26 to 28 January 2025, coinciding with the International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The aim of the workshop was to strengthen cooperation between stakeholders, to develop effective practices on anti-Semitic behavior and prejudice and to explore the European dimension of anti-Semitism. The proceedings were actively attended by police and judicial authorities, members of the Jewish Community of Thessaloniki, institutions and organizations, as well as distinguished European experts, providing a fruitful forum for the exchange of views and proposals.
The opening speech was delivered by the Vice President of the Jewish Community of Thessaloniki, Mr. Lazaros Sefiha, while Mrs. Chryssoula Aliferi, Ambassador – Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism and Defending the Memory of the Holocaust and Mrs. Efi Theodoraki, Deputy Mayor of Education & Lifelong Learning in the Municipality of Thessaloniki, addressed the event. The first panel about “Definition of Antisemitic Behavior and Symbolism-Antisemitic Prejudice Indicators and Recognition of Hate Behaviors” started a very interesting discussion on prejudice, hate crimes, prevention and education of young people to eliminate incidents of hatred towards nations and religions. In the second panel, entitled “European Dimension of Antisemitism-International Strategies for Confrontation”, representatives of the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance and the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, among others, presented studies and political and strategic guidelines for exploring the European dimension of anti-Semitism. The first day of the conference concluded with a tour of the monuments of Jewish interest in Thessaloniki, honoring the historical heritage of the community.
On the second day of the workshop, the SPIRIT and PARTES projects, two research projects focusing on hate crimes against religions and minorities, were presented, demonstrating the importance of synergies to optimize research results. In the third panel “Roles and operational needs of the involved agencies” speakers, including representatives from the Ministry of the Interior of Finland and the European Commission, presented the operational challenges faced by stakeholders while in the fourth session “Educational needs and requirements of the educational platform”, the importance of education and training to enhance the capacities of competent authorities and agencies in dealing with anti-Semitic crimes was discussed.
For more information about the EXODUS project, visit the website: Exodus – EU Project.
