Council of Europe says Germany is too strict in antisemitism interpretation

On 2026-04-16, the Council of Europe criticized Germany for being too strict and "expansive" in its interpretation of antisemitism. Commissioner for Human Rights Michael O’Flaherty said the distinction between legitimate criticism of Israeli state policy and antisemitism must not be blurred, warning against restrictions on freedom of expression in Germany. The comments were presented as part of his assessment of conditions in Germany.