The Coalition’s Plan to Include Questions on Antisemitism in Citizenship Test
Would-be Australians may have to answer questions about antisemitism to gain citizenship if the Coalition forms government in May.
Addressing Security Concerns
The Coalition has revealed it will add new questions to the citizenship test to gauge attitudes towards Jewish people as it proposes ways to address growing security concerns.
Opposition treasury spokesperson Angus Taylor says people hoping to become Australian citizens cannot display views that may exacerbate a “completely unacceptable” rise in antisemitic attacks.
“We’ll strengthen our citizenship test to make sure there is a specific question there, criterion around antisemitism because we have seen rampant antisemitism in this country,” he told ABC radio on Wednesday morning.
“And those coming to this country, we need to be confident that they’re not going to … perpetuate that unacceptable behaviour that we have seen in recent times.”
Similar Changes in Germany
An additional question could ask whether it’s acceptable to show disrespect towards people of Jewish faith, according to reports by Nine newspapers.
The plan follows similar changes to Germany’s citizenship test in 2024 amid a rise in antisemitic attacks.
Germany now requires potential citizens to identify examples of antisemitic behavior as well as answer specific questions about events of the Holocaust.
German politician Nancy Faeser said the country would have “no tolerance” for antisemitism, racism or other forms of contempt as it legislated the changes.
Opposition leader Peter Dutton has repeatedly called for a national conversation about revoking citizenship. Source: AAP / Lukas Coch
The citizenship proposal comes a day after Opposition leader Peter Dutton floated pursuing c if they have committed a serious crime.
The Coalition appeared divided on the issue, with Senator Michaelia Cash stating that while “all options were on the table”, there was “no plan” to hold the required referendum to grant the powers.
While the specifics of any referendum policy haven’t been revealed, a constitutional change giving the minister the power to strip citizenship would centralize power in the hands of the minister, effectively bypassing the courts.
When was the citizenship test last amended?
In 2020 the Morrison government amended Australia’s citizenship test for the first time in a decade.
It added five multiple-choice questions quizzing applicants on “Australian values” including mutual respect, equality and democracy.
While there were no changes to English language or residency requirements, the government also focused on boosting English language proficiency through free lessons.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Coalition’s plan to include questions on antisemitism in the citizenship test reflects a growing concern about security and the rise of antisemitic attacks in Australia. By following in the footsteps of Germany and implementing similar measures, the government aims to ensure that new citizens uphold values of tolerance and respect. However, the proposal has sparked debates within the Coalition, with differing opinions on the extent of powers granted to strip citizenship. As the discussion continues, it remains to be seen how these changes will shape Australia’s citizenship process in the future.
FAQs
1. Why is the Coalition considering adding questions on antisemitism to the citizenship test?
- The Coalition aims to address growing security concerns and combat the rise of antisemitic attacks in Australia.
2. How does the Coalition plan compare to changes in Germany’s citizenship test?
- Similar to Germany, Australia may require potential citizens to demonstrate knowledge of antisemitic behavior and attitudes towards Jewish people.