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In mid-June, the city of Torrelodones — a suburb of Madrid — became the first Spanish municipality to formally adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism.
Following this milestone development, the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) spoke with Torrelodones Mayor Almudena Negro — who participated in the CAM-organized 2025 European Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism in Paris, France last November — about the significance of the adoption and the essential role cities must play in the fight against antisemitism across Europe and beyond.
Why was it important for your city to take this step?
Torrelodones is a peaceful and safe town where we firmly believe in fostering coexistence. I’ve been observing the rise of antisemitism in Europe for some time now, and frankly, it worries me greatly.
I’m seeing behaviors and actions from some people that, in my opinion, are similar to what we experienced in Europe during the 1930s. History cannot be allowed to repeat itself.
And I believe that mayors are on the front lines in the fight for fraternity, the fight against discrimination, and the defense of freedom. That’s why, when the proposal was put forward, I didn’t hesitate for a moment.
The initiative has the support of our residents, who, as I mentioned, are people who, like me, are committed to democratic values and peaceful coexistence.
You attended CAM’s European Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism in Paris last year. How did that experience influence your decision to adopt the IHRA definition?
For me, having had the honor of participating in those sessions in Paris was an absolutely fascinating experience, which allowed me to delve deeper into issues that concern me greatly. Of course, it also influenced my decision to adopt the IHRA definition, insofar as those sessions made me see very clearly how necessary it is to step forward at times like these, in moments of darkness.
At a time when antisemitism is rising across Europe, what role do you believe local governments should play in protecting Jewish communities and democratic values?
We are the closest level of government to the citizen. That is why what we do has an immediate impact on the population. And precisely for that reason it is so important that we contribute to coexistence. Discriminatory or exclusionary policies, as we are unfortunately seeing in Spain and in the rest of Europe, degrade our democratic system and directly undermine freedom. If mayors do not raise their voices, I believe it is difficult to stand up to extremism.
Beyond adopting the IHRA definition, what concrete actions do you plan to take to combat antisemitism and hatred in Torrelodones?
Together with the Jewish Community of Madrid and the European Jewish Association (EJA), we are already preparing sports activities, as well as training for our local police officers on the subject of antisemitism. I want Torrelodones to be an example for the world, even if it sounds very ambitious. I believe that small towns can do great things in terms of coexistence and the fight against discrimination, whatever its form. Torrelodones is everyone’s home.
What message would you send to other mayors in Spain and across Europe who have not yet adopted the IHRA definition?
Let them not be afraid. Let them speak out for what is right. Let them think that if we don’t do it, we will be betraying not only the democratic principles and the defense of freedom and the West, but also our neighbors.
Since October 7th, Spain has experienced a sharp increase in antisemitic incidents. Do you believe the Spanish government has done enough to address this rise, or should it take stronger action to protect Jewish communities?
Spain adopted a national plan to implement the EU Strategy on Combating Antisemitism and Fostering Jewish Life (2023–2030) in January 2023. Three years later, how would you assess its implementation? Has it delivered tangible results at the local level?
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government has signed agreements — such as the one you mentioned and the IHRA declaration [in 2020] — but has rendered them meaningless. Nothing has been done. It is very difficult when there are antisemitic ministers such as Minister of Youth and Children Sira Rego.
Young people are increasingly exposed to online hate, misinformation, and extremist narratives. What can municipalities do to help young people develop critical thinking and democratic values?
I believe it is very important to raise awareness among our young people through education and municipal events. For example, in 2023, after I was elected, Torrelodones began holding a Holocaust memorial event, something that hadn’t been done previously, in collaboration with local schools. The students are deeply moved by the experience.
How important is interfaith dialogue in preventing hatred and strengthening social cohesion? Are there any initiatives in Torrelodones that you are particularly proud of?
It is absolutely fundamental to combat hatred, which spreads very easily. In our municipality, the parishes, especially the one at San Ignacio School, work on these issues through international programs.
Read more:
European Mayors Unite in Paris to Confront Rising Antisemitism Across Continent
Spain Plans Sweeping Arms Embargo on Israel, Considers Banning Top Officials
From Inquisition to Eurovision: Spain’s Long History of Antisemitism and the Politicization of Hate
