DayofPal—The British Medical Association (BMA) voted to drop the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism over concerns related to freedom of speech.
They said the definition blurs the line between criticism of Israel and antisemitism, imposing a “chilling effect” on free speech among healthcare workers.
The decision came amid growing concern that NHS staff have faced disciplinary action for expressing pro-Palestinian views or engaging in political expression related to Israel and Palestinians.
The move calls for better protections for medical staff who face workplace penalties over their political or ethical views on international conflicts, including the Israel-Palestine struggle.
It also urges NHS organizations to carefully assess policies that could restrict freedom of expression.
NHS England adopted the IHRA definition in 2025, and that a UK government-backed review led by Lord John Mann has recommended stricter anti-antisemitism measures in the NHS, including mandatory training and limits on political expression at work.
The IHRA definition can blur the line between criticism of Israel and antisemitism, highlighting tensions in the UK over free speech, workplace policy, and responses to the Gaza genocide.
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