The Department of Middle Eastern Studies at the Faculty of Arts of the University of ZČU in Pilsen has been engaged in research and monitoring of anti-Semitic manifestations since 2006, when it convened the inaugural expert colloquium on this topic. The primary focus of our research is the phenomenon of "cyberhate," or the expression of hatred on the Internet. Our objective is to identify emerging trends and potential risks associated with this phenomenon. Our research methodology combines traditional humanities and social sciences approaches with contemporary digital humanities methods. The objective of this project is to provide a basis for the development of strategies for the defence and prevention of extremist manifestations through the contribution of concrete facts and knowledge. Our researchers are engaged in collaborative research with international networks, including the European Network for Monitoring Antisemitism (ESA RN31), the Ethnic Relations Network, and the Contemporary Racism and Antisemitism Network. The results of our research are presented at international forums in Western Europe, the United States and Israel. We maintain active contact with research teams from Indiana University, Tel Aviv University and other academic institutions. Our staff are engaged in research projects, for instance in collaboration with the Institute of Art History of the CAS. We provide data and consultation to state and non-state institutions, journalists, and Jewish and other community organisations in the Czech Republic. By participating in media appearances and delivering popularisation lectures, we facilitate the formation of public discourse on the issue of anti-Semitism.

Mgr. Zbyněk Tarant, Ph.D.

ztarant@ff.zcu.cz