A controversial ban on the phrase 'globalise the intifada' has sparked debate, with concerns it may import repressive models from the UK. The New South Wales (NSW) parliamentary inquiry, prompted by the Bondi terror attack, aims to prohibit slogans inciting hatred. However, some argue that this ban could disproportionately affect Muslim Australians and Palestinian communities. The Australian National Imams Council (Anic) and the Palestine Action Group (PAG) have voiced concerns, suggesting that such a ban may lead to the adoption of repressive practices from overseas, particularly in the UK, where police have already announced plans to arrest protesters using the phrase.
The inquiry, which does not include public hearings, closed submissions just three weeks after the Bondi attack. During this time, the government decided to consult a parliamentary committee before introducing legislative changes. The phrase 'globalise the intifada', which refers to Palestinian uprisings, has been deemed 'hateful and violent rhetoric' by NSW MP Minns. However, the Jewish community's representative organization, the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies (JBD), has welcomed the move, seeing it as a step towards combating hate speech. The Australian Centre for Jewish Civilisation's director, David Slucki, has also labeled the phrase as 'offensive' and 'threatening'.
However, the Anic and PAG have raised concerns about content-based bans, arguing that they risk arbitrary enforcement and may disproportionately impact specific communities and advocates. The NSW Council for Civil Liberties (NSWCCL) has also warned that such bans could undermine social cohesion and the freedom of political communication. The inquiry is expected to submit its final report to the government on January 31st, and the debate continues as to whether a ban on this phrase is necessary and fair.
