It is often said that university campuses are evolving, ever changing, and progressing. In many ways we’re seeing change at universities across varying sectors yet, one thing still consistently impacting university campuses is the rise in antisemitism.

Last week saw the question ‘What steps are being taken to eliminate antisemitism on campus?’ debated in the House of Lords.

It was a timely and important debate as CST has reported a total of 325 university related antisemitic incidents in the last two academic years. UJS has also reported that antisemitic incidents on campus increased by 413% between the 22/23 and 23/24 academic years.

These figures highlight the challenging nature of campus for Jewish students and the pressing need for steps to be taken to eliminate antisemitism on campus.

In response to the debate Lord Shinkwin shared the importance of CCJ and what we’re doing with our campus leadership programme applauding the courage of our students. We’re grateful for his encouraging words towards the programme and our students working for change on their campuses.

‘My Lords, I too thank the noble Lord, Lord Cryer, for securing this debate. I declare an interest as a past trustee for the Council of Christians and Jews—the CCJ—a wonderful interfaith organisation established by the then Archbishop of Canterbury and the Chief Rabbi in 1942, as the tragedy of the Holocaust unfolded.

A core part of the CCJ’s work is on campus. Through its campus leadership program, which is currently training 12 students across seven UK universities, the CCJ is empowering Jewish, Christian and students of other faiths to be the interfaith leaders of tomorrow. Since its launch in 2016, more than 80 students have been trained by the CCJ to stand up to antisemitism and Islamophobia, and, crucially, to conduct balanced and mutually respectful debates. I applaud them for their courage in what is clearly an increasingly febrile and hostile climate.’

What stands out is the courage of our campus leaders (and those applying to be our future campus leaders). Over the past two years we have continually developed our training in response to the climate on campus. This past year we have added sessions on identifying and responding to faith-based hate and intolerance, and an introduction to Israel/Palestine to our training residential. We recognise this is ever changing and will continue to develop our training, resources, and support for campus leaders based on the needs of their campus and the changing nature of the university experience year on year.

Our current cohort of campus leaders are in the process of running their final interfaith events of the year, many of which have been the most collaborative we’ve seen yet. As they prepare to pass the baton to the next cohort, we are continuing to see their courage as they learn more about each other, build bridges, and stand against antisemitism. A courageous and necessary student led step to help eliminate antisemitism on campus.

Thanks to our supporters in the House of Lords, Lord Shinkwin, Lord Leigh and Baroness Altmann, and all who spoke to raise awareness of this issue.

Beth Williams

Campus Manager, CCJ