Lufthansa becomes first airline to adopt IHRA definition of antisemitism

Germany’s national carrier Lufthansa has adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism, making the first airline globally to do so.

The company published news on its official website and said it will tackle racism and antisemitism.

There has been controversy in recent years over this definition of antisemitism, with critics of Israeli rights abuses saying it weaponises criticism of the continued occupation of Palestinian territory and persecution of Palestinians.

"I speak with conviction when I say:  there is no room for antisemitism, discrimination and racism of any kind in society, nor in the Lufthansa Group," Lufthansa Group Executive Board Member Christina Foerster, stated at a ceremony in Washington D.C. commemorating the adoption of the definition.

The airline said it was taking a "leadership role in speaking out against antisemitism, discrimination as well all manifestations of racism."

"Fundamental to standing against antisemitism is understanding what it is and how it manifests, both in overt forms and through unconscious bias. The IHRA definition recognises all of this - that is its distinct strength," said Foerster.

Days ago, German state broadcaster Deutsche Welle said it will require all employees to accept the right of Israel to exist if they want to work at the media outlet according to its updated code of conduct.

"Due to Germany's history, we have a special obligation towards Israel," the code of conduct reads, in reference to the Holocaust.

The definition also attracted controversy in the UK among some pro-Palestine supporters when Labour adopted the code due to fears that criticism of Israel by members would be punished by the party.