Project Description
The Institute of Educational Technology and the Tom Lantos Institute developed a conceptual study and a set of practical guidelines to serve as a basis for social media campaigns targeting young audiences to combat antisemitism. By using TikTok as a platform for education and advocacy, the Toolkit aims to inspire and enable campaigns that not only combat hate, but also mobilise individuals and communities to stand up against antisemitism and other forms of discrimination.
The project consisted of two main components. First, a conceptual study identified the most common forms of antisemitism based on an extensive literature review and a series of interviews with experts from both participating countries. Second, practical guidelines were developed through the design and implementation of a TikTok social media campaign to combat antisemitism.
While the recommendations provided are broadly applicable to any social media campaign tackling antisemitism, specific subsections offer targeted guidance for campaigns focused on countering Holocaust distortion or tackling anti-Israel prejudice. The results aim to transform TikTok into a space where positive change thrives and in which users actively contribute to creating a more inclusive and informed online environment.
Outputs
- The publication equips NGOs, activists, educators, and social media managers with practical strategies to counter antisemitic narratives on TikTok, providing concise, actionable guidance for creating impactful awareness content.
- The guide emphasises fostering inclusive online spaces by creating shareable content that encourages dialogue and collaboration, with the goal of transforming TikTok into a platform for positive change that combats hate and promotes understanding.
- The publication is available in English, Italian, and Hungarian, enabling broader accessibility and cross-cultural dialogue on combating antisemitism.
Findings
- Antisemitism is shaped by local contexts and global stereotypes. Effective educational interventions should address both local manifestations and broader, global narratives to ensure relevance and tackle systemic patterns.
- Anti-Zionism can overlap with antisemitism, especially when it uses antisemitic tropes. It is a complex political issue, requiring a balance between recognising legitimate political criticism and confronting instances in which anti-Zionist rhetoric spills over into antisemitism.
- Challenges in addressing anti-Zionism often arise from differing interpretations of what constitutes legitimate criticism of Israeli policies versus expressions that cross into antisemitism. These difficulties are further complicated by diverse cultural, political, and ideological perspectives, which can lead to varying understandings of the boundaries between anti- Zionism and antisemitism.