University of Rostock sets an example: First anti-Semitism commissioner appointed!

University of Rostock sets an example: First anti-Semitism commissioner appointed!

The University of Rostock has taken a decisive step to combat anti-Semitism by creating the position of anti-Semitism officer. Professor Martin Rösel was appointed this first anti-Semitism commissioner on July 15, 2025, in a ceremony led by Professor Elizabeth Prommer, the university's rector. Rösel, who works as senior academic advisor at the Chair of Old Testament at the Faculty of Theology, will in future be available to university members as a contact person in the event of anti-Semitic incidents.

The decision to appoint an anti-Semitism commissioner comes at a time when anti-Semitism in schools and universities is increasingly becoming the focus of society. Professor Prommer emphasizes that anti-Semitism must have no place at the university and underlines the importance of the appointment for a climate of respect and acceptance.

Professor Rösel and his tasks

Martin Rösel is not only a proven expert on the Old Testament, but also a committed collaborator whose teaching and research areas include numerous aspects such as the Hebrew language, textual criticism and the religious history of the Ancient Near East. In his new role, he will advise the rectorate and promote exchange with the Jewish community and relevant institutions. These tasks are particularly important in light of the Bundestag's proposal, which was approved on January 29, 2025. The motion calls for a determined fight against anti-Semitism and hostility to Israel in educational institutions.

Jewish and Israeli members of schools and universities are increasingly exposed to personal and violent hostility, especially since the Hamas massacre in October 2023. The Bundestag motion clearly positions itself against these developments and calls for a more intensive approach to anti-Semitic behavior and a strengthening of anti-Semitism research.

The relevance of these developments

In order to overcome these challenges, it is essential that universities like the University of Rostock take proactive measures. Professor Rösel will play a critical role in strengthening the connection between academic institutions and the Jewish community. In addition, the University Rectors' Conference reaffirms the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) definition of anti-Semitism, a step that underlines the university's clear stance against anti-Semitism.

At a time when non-Jewish individuals who show solidarity with Israel are also under threat, it is important that universities provide a safe environment. The activities of organizations that spread Israel-related anti-Semitism should be stopped, and supporting such movements contradicts the values ​​of academic excellence that the University of Rostock upholds.

Professor Martin Rösel’s contact details are as follows:
University of Rostock, Faculty of Theology
Tel.: +49 381 498-8411
E-mail: martin.roesel@uni-rostock.de

Through the appointment of Martin Rösel and the structures it has strengthened, the University of Rostock shows that it is ready to take authentic steps against anti-Semitism and promote an environment based on mutual respect.

Further information on the challenges and measures against anti-Semitism in schools and universities can be found in the Bundestag document bundestag.de as well as in the reports from the University of Rostock uni-rostock.de and n-tv.de.