Jewish Groups Urge UN to Prioritize Anti-Antisemitism Stance in Next Secretary-General Selection

A coalition of major Jewish diaspora organizations, known as the J7, has appealed to United Nations member states to make the fight against antisemitism a primary criterion when selecting the next UN Secretary-General. In an open letter released during the UN General Assembly, the J7, representing Jewish communities from Argentina, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States, stated that anti-Jewish prejudice represents a "grave failure" within certain UN bodies. The group is not endorsing any specific candidate.

The UN is expected to appoint António Guterres' successor in the coming months as his term nears its end. The J7 is calling for the future Secretary-General to explicitly commit to combating antisemitism, utilizing the working definition provided by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA). This definition includes instances where criticism of Israel may constitute antisemitism, a point that has generated debate.

To support their appeal, the J7 cited its latest annual report, which indicates that 2025 was the deadliest year for antisemitic attacks in the seven represented countries in over three decades, with more than 23,000 incidents recorded and 20 fatalities. The organizations are also advocating for the appointment of a dedicated UN special envoy to combat antisemitism, equipped with adequate resources, and for enhanced oversight of UN officials and mandate holders.

Furthermore, the J7 requests that UN funding, personnel, and institutional resources not be used to support or legitimize antisemitism, extremism, or incitement to hatred.