About CrossLines.

Antisemitism has become increasingly intertwined with digital misinformation, geopolitical conflict and polarised public debate. These dynamics intensified significantly after October 7, when Jewish communities across Europe experienced heightened public scrutiny, increased media attention and a surge in security concerns. Journalists often operate under significant time pressure and must navigate sensitive topics without always having equal access to expertise or community perspectives. Jewish communities and practitioners, meanwhile, face rising expectations to respond quickly and authoritatively to media inquiries while simultaneously managing elevated safety concerns, internal vulnerabilities and the emotional weight of representing minority experiences during periods of crisis. CrossLines was created to respond to these overlapping challenges. It provides a structured setting in which communication gaps can be addressed directly, common misunderstandings can be clarified and sustainable mechanisms for exchange can be developed.

The central aim of CrossLines is to support more informed, precise and responsible reporting on antisemitism and Jewish life. At the same time, the project strengthens the ability of Jewish communities and practitioners to engage with media professionals in ways that are confident, secure and constructive. CrossLines also seeks to understand the long term needs of both fields. The success of the project has already shown that journalists and practitioners alike experience significant demand for guidance, expertise and structured support. One of the project’s core ambitions is therefore to explore these needs more deeply and to help ensure that engagement in this area can be sustained beyond the initial project period.

CrossLines works with journalists and editors from across the European media landscape, including established partners such as Die Zeit, taz and the RTL Journalistenschule. It also trains practitioners from a wide range of European countries who work in organisations that differ in size, mandate and strategic focus but who all deal with antisemitism in various forms. In addition, the project includes affected individuals and community-based initiatives, such as young representatives from the European Union of Jewish Students and journalistic projects within Jewish communities, for example EDA. These diverse groups occupy essential roles in shaping public understanding of antisemitism and therefore benefit from shared learning spaces that foster clarity, confidence and mutual comprehension.

CrossLines combines participatory workshops, applied research and the creation of practical communication resources. The workshops bring together media professionals, community representatives and civil society practitioners for facilitated discussions about challenges, expectations and real world experiences. Evaluations conducted during the project capture learning outcomes and structural needs, while best practice documents synthesise the insights generated in the sessions. The project works closely with experts in antisemitism research, media ethics and intercultural communication to ensure conceptual depth, cultural sensitivity and relevance across different European contexts. The resource hub on the website further provides accessible summaries, reports and training materials for continued use.