Cooper Highlights Hate’s Violent Impact at Holocaust Memorial Event

UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the country’s commitment to combat antisemitism during a recent event ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day. Cooper announced the appointment of Jon Pearce as the new special envoy for post-Holocaust issues. This announcement coincided with concerns over rising hate crimes against Jewish communities both in the UK and globally.

Addressing the Impact of Antisemitism

During her address, Cooper highlighted the “violent and corrosive effects” of hatred and prejudice in current society. She referred to recent attacks, such as the assault on a Manchester synagogue and the Bondi killings in Sydney, expressing that these hateful acts are sadly prevalent.

Commemoration and Acknowledgment

• Yvette Cooper spoke at an event co-hosted by the UK Foreign Office and the Embassy of Israel.
• Holocaust survivor Mala Tribich, aged 95, received praise for her bravery in sharing her personal story.
• Cooper’s speech emphasized the importance of Holocaust education, remembrance, and the need for action against antisemitism.

Tribich, who survived the horrors of the Holocaust, stressed the significance of understanding the threat of antisemitism today. She reminded attendees that the number of surviving witnesses continues to decline, making it crucial for others to preserve these narratives through education and dialogue.

Statistics on Hate Crimes

The latest data from the Home Office revealed startling statistics regarding hate crimes. In the year ending March 2025, there were 106 religious hate crimes per 10,000 population targeting Jewish individuals in England and Wales. This made Jews the most targeted faith group for religious hate crimes.

Antisemitic Incidents Reported

• The Community Security Trust recorded 1,521 antisemitic incidents in the first half of 2025.
• This figure represents a decrease from the record high of 2,019 incidents reported in the same period of 2024.
• Overall reports of antisemitism peaked in 2023, reaching a staggering 4,296 incidents, particularly following the October 7 attack by Hamas.

A Commitment to Remembrance

Cooper expressed pride in Parliament’s recent passing of the Holocaust Memorial Act, describing it as a significant step toward creating a national Holocaust Memorial and Learning Centre at Victoria Tower Gardens. Despite some controversy surrounding the location’s design and its immediate proximity to Parliament, she emphasized its importance in memorializing history.

This year’s Holocaust Memorial Day focuses on “bridging generations,” aiming to reinforce the vital role youth play in preserving the memories of the Holocaust. Cooper reaffirmed the UK Government’s unwavering support for the Jewish community, vowing to remain relentless in combating antisemitism in all its forms.