The quiet cancellation of Jumana Manna’s solo exhibition at Heidelberger Kunstverein in 2023 has ignited debates on artistic freedom, Palestine, and the use of antisemitism frameworks in cultural institutions. Critics argue that IHRA definitions risk conflating political critique of Israel with antisemitism, limiting Palestinian voices. Manna’s case highlights self‑policing, institutional caution, and calls for alternative standards like the Jerusalem Declaration on Antisemitism.
Germany’s Bundestag passed a non-binding resolution in November 2024, urging that public funding for cultural and academic projects align with the IHRA definition of antisemitism. While not a law, the resolution is rapidly changing practices, impacting artistic freedom, and fueling debate over its effects, particularly in high-profile institutions like Documenta. Critics warn of self-censorship and legal uncertainty as Germany’s cultural sector adapts.
