The UK’s leading business organisations have signed a joint letter pledging to take a stand against antisemitism, committing to concrete action to support Jewish employees and foster inclusive workplaces.
The initiative, co-ordinated by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), brings together a wide coalition of major industry bodies representing millions of employees across the UK.
The letter follows roundtables hosted by Number 10 (Tuesday 5 May) and the Department for Business and Trade (Wednesday 13 May). Senior business leaders met with ministersand Jewish community representatives to discuss the rise of antisemitism and the need for a whole of society approach to tackle it.
In the letter, signatories make clear that antisemitism is racism and has no place in modern Britain, warning that the experiences faced by Jewish communities have ‘reached a level that requires specific attention’.
Their organisations have committed to a series of actions, including:
- Speaking out publicly against antisemitism
- Taking a zero-tolerance approach to incidents in the workplace
- Improving awareness through education and training
- Offering tailored support to Jewish colleagues
The coalition says businesses have a shared responsibility to act, recognising their influence in shaping both workplace culture and wider society.
Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said:
“No-one should feel unsafe in the workplace. Businesses have a fundamental role to play in delivering that. The rise in antisemitism is deeply concerning and demands a clear, collective response.
“This letter is the starting point. All businesses have a responsibility to turn words into action – ensuring that Jewish employees feel safe and protected.
“Companies across the UK are already stepping up to show leadership and set expectations. We must be unequivocal that antisemitism has no place in our society. By acting together, business can be a powerful force for good.”
Rain Newton-Smith, Chief Executive of the CBI, said:
“Antisemitism is abhorrent and has no place in business or wider society. Employers have a responsibility not only to condemn it, but to help prevent it wherever it appears.
“This joint letter sets out clear commitments to educate, support and act, so that Jewish colleagues feel safe, respected and valued at work.
“The breadth of organisations backing this statement reflects the strength of feeling across the business community. We will continue working with government and partners to turn these commitments into meaningful action.
“Inclusive workplaces are vital for individuals, for businesses and for the success of our economy.”
Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, said:
“We hear far too often from the Jewish community that antisemitism is all too normal in our society, including in our workplaces.
“That’s why I’ve met business groups and Jewish community organisations to build on last week’s critical summit, and I’m pleased to see workplaces begin to discuss the action they can take to combat this hatred.
“Nobody should go to their place of work fearful of suffering antisemitic abuse and businesses have a crucial role to play in facing this challenge head on.”