The Dominican Republic has officially adopted the Working Definition of Antisemitism set forth by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA). President Luis Abinader made the announcement during the sixth-annual Latin American Forum Against Antisemitism, which took place in Santo Domingo on Monday. This decision establishes the Dominican Republic as the seventh nation in Latin America to adopt the IHRA definition, following Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Panama, and Uruguay.
Government Commitment Against Antisemitism
During the event, Abinader highlighted the broader implications of antisemitism, stating, “Antisemitism is not a problem that concerns only the Jewish people. It is a threat to democratic coexistence and to the rights and freedoms of us all.” He emphasized that combating antisemitism should align with universal principles rather than fluctuate with political tides.
In his remarks, Abinader clarified that rejecting antisemitism does not entail taking sides in any political disagreements or conflicts. He asserted that no cause could justify any form of hatred or discrimination against individuals or communities. With this adoption, he directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to formalize and publicize the decision.
Abinader further conveyed that adopting the IHRA definition reaffirms the country’s commitment to Holocaust remembrance, the safeguarding of Jewish communities, and the eradication of antisemitism in all its manifestations. He also reiterated a commitment to oppose all forms of hatred, religious intolerance, and violence.
In connection to the event, he announced a donation of 50 million pesos for the construction of a new building for the Jewish Museum of Sosúa, located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. The announcement was well-received, with U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, Ambassador Rabbi Yehuda Kaploun, labeling this moment as “historic.”
Kaploun noted that Latin America is currently experiencing significant changes and is moving towards a model that prioritizes prosperity and individual freedoms. He expressed the willingness of the United States to assist countries in this transformative journey towards greater religious liberty.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry welcomed the adoption of the IHRA definition by the Dominican Republic, considering it a vital tool in the fight against antisemitism. The ministry also expressed hope that other nations in the region would follow suit.
As reported by the World Jewish Congress, approximately 100 Jews reside in the Dominican Republic, primarily in Santo Domingo, with a smaller population in Sosúa. Despite its small size, the Jewish community is supported by two synagogues and various cultural initiatives.
Why It Matters
The adoption of the IHRA definition by the Dominican Republic signifies a proactive approach to countering antisemitism and promoting tolerance. It reflects a broader commitment among nations in the region to uphold democratic values and human rights, contributing to a global movement against discrimination and violence based on religion or ethnicity.
