City Corporation's antisemitism response praised, but questions remain on scope and implementation
The City of London Corporation's Equity, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 30 September 2026 to discuss its organisational response to antisemitism. The committee received an update on the ongoing work to tackle antisemitism and support Jewish colleagues and communities, which builds upon the adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism.
Sarah Guerra, Equalities Director, presented a report outlining the practical steps being taken, focusing on enhancing knowledge, awareness, and capability to address antisemitism. The City Corporation is exploring options to improve staff and Member confidence in recognizing, understanding, and appropriately challenging antisemitism. This includes considering specialist antisemitism learning, similar to that already delivered in City Corporation schools, and whether additional practical guidance would assist managers, Members, and teams in navigating discussions related to antisemitism. Efforts are also being made to share relevant learning from departments and institutions to increase consistency and avoid duplication.
The report also detailed efforts to improve the visibility of reporting routes and support available for concerns of discrimination or harassment. Officers will review existing reporting routes and support available for concerns of discrimination, harassment, or related issues, with a focus on staff awareness and accessibility. This activity will be aligned with existing workstreams such as Dignity at Work, relevant staff policies, EEDI learning activities, Faith in the City, and community engagement initiatives.
Members were encouraged to reinforce the message that antisemitism has no place within the City Corporation or the Square Mile. The discussion highlighted the continued relevance of addressing such issues, with the momentum of this work noted as having surprised many, despite international challenges.
Deputy Anne Corbett inquired about the future reporting schedule for this matter, and it was confirmed that it would be integrated into the broader reporting schedule for the EDI strategic framework. However, it was also noted that standalone reports could be provided in extraordinary circumstances.
The full public reports pack for the meeting can be found here.