In November 2020, the University of Sunderland adopted the IHRA working definition with a supplementary statement.
Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.
In accepting in its entirety the IHRA working definition of anti-semitism, the Board of Governors of the University of Sunderland reasserts, on behalf of the whole institution, its absolute commitment to academic freedom and freedom of speech within the law.
While supporting the IHRA working definition, the Board of Governors does not believe that this de-legitimises political criticism of, for example, the actions of the State of Israel or other individuals, organisations or nation states.