Centre for Independent Studies launches major antisemitism research project
The project aims to address rising religious and cultural intolerance with data-driven insights and practical policy recommendations
The Centre for Independent Studies (CIS) has announced a landmark three-year research initiative to analyse and combat antisemitism and other religious discrimination in contemporary Australia.
The project, championed and funded by the Luminis Foundation and Simon Mordant, aims to address rising religious and cultural intolerance with data-driven insights and practical policy recommendations to uphold Australia’s pluralist democratic values.
The research defines antisemitism broadly, including both overt and coded hostility toward Jewish individuals and institutions, aligning with international standards such as the IHRA working definition. Islamophobia will also be examined as a related form of intolerance.
“The recent explosion of antisemitism in Australia speaks to a fundamental breakdown in our multicultural society,” Luminis Partners executive co-chairman Ron Malek said.
“It is a major issue for all our communities because left unchecked it will erode our shared Australian values and totally undermine social cohesion across the country.”
Luminis Partners managing director Jamie Garis said racism was abhorrent in any form. “The rise in antisemitism is quite frankly alarming; so we and the Luminis Foundation consider this a vital project for all Australians,” Garis said.
CIS Executive Director Tom Switzer said Australia could not afford complacency in the face of rising antisemitism and religious intolerance. “This project, grounded in rigorous research, is a vital step in promoting tolerance,” he said.
“The Centre for Independent Studies is proud to lead this research and contribute practical solutions to one of the most pressing challenges of our time.”
Key deliverables include annual national surveys on perceptions of antisemitism, Islamophobia and religious intolerance, publications on antisemitism and online hate, and a final edited volume consolidating three years of research and policy recommendations.
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