Special Envoy’s Plan to Combat Antisemitism

The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance condemns hate speech, including antisemitism, as a threat to democracy, a free media, and equality.

Antisemitism, as a form of racism, should be met with the principle of zero tolerance.

MEAA acknowledges the release of the Special Envoy’s Plan to Combat Antisemitism and the Prime Minister’s willingness to tackle this issue.

It is important, however, that proposed actions be carefully considered in line with community expectations, including that press and artistic freedom be maintained.

Laws to deal with racism already exist. Courts, as well as human rights and anti-discrimination commissions, have the capacity to handle and determine complaints and recommended penalties or other remedies.’

Under the MEAA Journalist Code of Ethics, members have a responsibility to report responsibly on matters of race, religion, culture, and ethnicity. In addition, MEAA has developed Guidelines on Reporting Hate Speech and Extremism, which acknowledge that media freedom is underpinned by ethical reporting and that hate speech is antithetical to ethical journalism.

It is essential that ethical, fair, and public interest reporting is maintained through the upholding of the Code of Ethics and rigorous journalistic standards, not through external regulation by government bodies, lobby groups, or corporate interests.

When external groups seek to limit or influence the way in which journalism is told, press freedom and democratic discourse come under threat.

Just as an independent media is critical to a functioning democracy, the arts and freedom of expression are closely intertwined. Art sheds critical light on our society and must challenge preconceptions, even if that makes some people uncomfortable.

MEAA strongly cautions against the adoption of policies that would undermine the independence of the media and arts sectors.

For media inquiries contact:

Rebecca Urban – 0411 790 304