Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-4), leading a delegation of U.S. representatives to the semi-annual meeting of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Parliamentary Assembly, has obtained substantial support for an anti-Semitism platform he launched at last summer’s session. 

    A coalition of more than 75 parliamentarians from 15 countries attending the assembly expressed their support for efforts to combat anti-Semitism in the 55 nation OSCE region.  

    “The overwhelming support given to our international efforts to combat anti-Semitism sends a strong message that anti-Semitism simply will not be tolerated and that our governments will do all they can to prosecute those people who promote this violence and hatred,” said Smith, who chairs the United States Helsinki Commission, a panel which works to promote and foster democracy, human rights, and stability in Eastern and Central Europe.  

    It was Smith who wrote the OSCE Resolution passed at the July 2002 meeting in Berlin which denounced anti-Semitic violence and concurred that a pro-active approach by parliaments and governments are essential to deal with this rising problem.   

    In December, Smith – as head of the U.S. Delegation – and Assembly Vice-President and German Parliamentarian Gert Weisskirchen – signed a letter of intent outlining a plan of action for OSCE countries to follow in order to combat anti-Semitism. 

    Actions recommended in the resolution include tougher legislation and law enforcement  in each member nation, renewed educational efforts to counter anti-Semitic attitudes and stereotypes, and addressing the proliferation of anti-Semitic and neo-Nazi materials over the Internet.  

    Before leaving to attend the session, Smith introduced a resolution in the House condemning anti-Semitism.  

    “Anti-Semitism is not a problem relegated to the Middle East or Europe only.  It is a plague that knows no boundaries and one we must all work hard to fight through education, diplomacy, and prosecution,” Smith said.