FOA Europe
FOA’s First European Branch
In June 2024, FOA opened its first European branch in France, marking a significant milestone in our mission to combat online antisemitism. This new office is a crucial step in addressing the rising tide of online hate affecting Jewish communities across Europe.
Addressing the Rise in Antisemitism
France, home to Europe’s largest Jewish community, has seen a troubling increase in antisemitic incidents, particularly since October 7, 2023. This surge in online abuse presents a serious threat to the safety and well-being of Jewish individuals across the continent. Our French branch aims to bolster our efforts in tracking, reporting, and combating antisemitic content more effectively.
Strengthening Local and Global Partnerships
Our new office in France will enhance our collaboration with European organizations committed to fighting antisemitism. By partnering with local and international groups, we aim to improve our ability to monitor and address hate speech on digital platforms.
Leveraging the European Digital Services Act
The launch of our European branch aligns with the European Digital Services Act (DSA), a key regulation in our strategy. The DSA, which came into effect on November 16, 2022, introduces a modern framework for managing online hate and includes:
- Transparency and Accountability: Platforms must work with trusted flaggers like FOA to identify and remove harmful content.
- Annual Risk Assessments: Platforms are required to regularly assess and address the spread of illegal content and misinformation.
- Independent Audits: Regular audits ensure compliance with DSA regulations.
- User Reporting Mechanisms: Improved processes for reporting and addressing complaints.
- Enhanced User Control: Better user control over the content they encounter online.
A Modern Approach to Digital Challenges
The DSA updates the outdated E-Commerce Directive of 2000, providing a framework that addresses the complexities of the digital age. Developed by the European Commission with contributions from EU member states, the DSA aims to create a safer online environment while fostering innovation and protecting users’ rights.
FOA's Ongoing Commitment
With our new branch in France, FOA reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the Jewish community and promoting a more inclusive online space. We look forward to making a meaningful impact in the fight against antisemitism throughout Europe.
FOA Receives the Prestigious 2024 Ro & Suz Award!
We are honored and proud to announce that Fighting Online Antisemitism (FOA) has been named the recipient of the 2024 Ro & Suz Award. This recognition, presented by Stichting Magenta, highlights our efforts in combating online antisemitism and promoting digital safety for Jewish communities worldwide.
The Ro & SuZ Award is named after Ronald Eissens (1963-2021) and Suzette Bronkhorst (1958-2021), who founded the International Network Against Cyber Hate (INACH) in 2002. INACH has members on 5 continents across over 20 countries.
Each year, the award is presented at the INACH annual conference, held this year in Budapest, Hungary. It recognizes an organization or individual that develops innovative ways to combat cyberhate or works towards “Bringing the Online In line with Human Rights”.
FOA is deeply grateful to the Magenta Board for acknowledging the importance of combating antisemitism.
Receiving this award almost one year after the events of October 7th, and at a time when online Jewish hate has increased by more than 300% in just one year, is deeply meaningful and inspiring for all of FOA’s volunteers worldwide.
We share this achievement with our supporters, volunteers, and donors, as together, we are making a difference in the fight against online antisemitism.
About INACH
INACH is a global network dedicated to fighting cyber hate by promoting human rights and responsible online behavior. Established in 2002, the organization collaborates with governments, NGOs, and tech companies to combat online discrimination and harmful content.
As the only Israeli member of INACH, we are proud to contribute our expertise and perspective to this vital international effort, working together to fight online hate.
This recognition reaffirms our commitment to creating a safer online environment through education, advocacy, and engagement.
