It has been an extraordinary honor to serve as the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism for the past three years. The fight against antisemitism is a moral imperative and a cornerstone of a strong, diverse, and democratic society. To have been entrusted with this responsibility, especially at a time when the world has been rocked by a tsunami of hatred, has been both humbling and deeply meaningful.
Antisemitism is not solely a threat to the welfare of Jews—it is a multifaceted and multilayered threat to democracy, the rule of law, and international stability. Those who propagate antisemitism often seek to erode faith in democratic institutions, to destabilize the social fabric, and to promote a divisive, discriminatory worldview. From conspiracy myths to acts of violence, antisemitism undermines the very foundations of free societies, threatening both their moral and political fabric.
In 2021, the United States Congress took a significant step by elevating the position of Special Envoy to the rank of Ambassador. In March 2022, President Biden nominated me as the first Ambassador to fill this position, and the Senate later confirmed me to occupy this critical post. Over the course of these three years, I have had the privilege of leading efforts that have brought together governments, international organizations, Jewish communities, the private sector, and civil society groups in an unprecedented global push against antisemitism. The gravity of this challenge was never lost on me, yet neither was the immense hope that our collective actions could make a difference.
Throughout my tenure, representatives from my office and I have had the privilege of visiting over 30 countries—some of them multiple times—and engaging with officials from more than 50 nations. Together, we have fostered constructive dialogue, built partnerships, and worked toward tangible solutions. Our efforts have spanned the globe, addressing the many manifestations of antisemitism, whether through governmental action, education reform, or the promotion of religious freedom. Together, we have pushed for:
- Stronger governmental measures to counter rising antisemitic hatred,
- Educational reforms that introduce the subject of Jewish history and culture from an early age, promoting tolerance and understanding,
- Protecting religious practices, including the ability to perform male circumcision and to slaughter animals according to Jewish tradition,
- Enhanced security for Jewish institutions and sacred sites,
- The embrace of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, and its illustrative examples, providing a clear framework for the various forms this hate takes,
- The development of national action plans to confront antisemitism,
- And the creation of bridges between Jewish communities, governments at all levels, and other minority groups to strengthen social cohesion.
Each international visit had intention. Building on the success of the Abraham Accords, we ventured through the Middle East and North Africa, emphasizing the centuries-old presence of Jewish communities in the region. In Europe, we engaged with small but resilient Jewish communities, celebrating their vitality while standing in unwavering solidarity with them, despite the fear they often face. In South America, we honored survivors at the memorial of one of the most devastating antisemitic attacks in recent decades, underscoring our commitment to countering antisemitism wherever it emerges. Through both traditional and social media, we spread the resolute message, articulated by President George Washington, that we give to “bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance,” reaching millions around the world with a call for unity and justice.
A moment of profound pride during my time in office was the launch in May 2023 of the United States’ first National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. This strategy, a whole-of-government effort, has been an essential tool in driving both national and international engagement to counter hate, while amplifying the richness of Jewish culture.
But perhaps even more momentous was our work on the international stage. In July 2024, we helped launch the first-ever globally recognized strategy to counter antisemitism—the Global Guidelines for Countering Antisemitism. Over 40 countries and international bodies have endorsed this shared framework, marking a critical step toward global unity in the fight against this pernicious hatred.
The most heartbreaking and urgent reminder of the importance of this work came on October 7, 2023, when a horrific surge in antisemitic violence and rhetoric followed unthinkable terrorist attacks. In response, our office redoubled its efforts, working tirelessly to counter antisemitism wherever it arises and to demonstrate steadfast support for Jewish communities worldwide. This surge reinforced the truth that our work is far from over. The battle against antisemitism is not won, but it is one we must continue to wage.
As I step away from this post, I carry with me the lessons learned knowing that others will continue the work we have started. None of our achievements would have been possible without the dedication and expertise of my team. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Aaron Keyak, my Deputy Special Envoy, whose tireless commitment and guidance have been indispensable, and to the entire office for their unwavering efforts. They have repeatedly made me look good. I may have received the accolades, but they were the ones who deserved them. It has been a privilege to work alongside such an incredible group of professionals, without whom we would not have accomplished nearly as much as we have.
It has been a profound privilege to serve in this capacity, and though the path ahead is daunting, I am more confident than ever that we as a county will rise to meet it. Our commitment to combat antisemitism at home and abroad is not just about defending a community; it is about defending the very principles that define a free, just, and compassionate world.
We did not complete the task, something that I am not sure is possible. But we did not desist from undertaking it with deep-seated conviction and sense of purpose. May the work continue. And may we all be guided by the enduring belief that in the fight against hate, no effort is too small, no voice too quiet, and no heart too weary to make a difference.
With gratitude,
Ambassador Deborah E. Lipstadt, Ph.D.
Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism