A prominent member of the island’s Jewish community has published an open letter accusing the Manx justice system of failing to act on documented antisemitic hate speech while vigorously prosecuting similar offences against other groups.
Michael Josem, who moved to the island 15 years ago, states that while the majority of people have been “incredibly warm and welcoming,” a “noisy and threatening minority” is blighting the community with “rabid antisemitism.”
In his letter, Mr Josem details specific online comments he reported to Police in March and July of this year.
These included a public statement advocating violence along the lines of the October 7 attack and another which linked Judaism to murder and genocide.
Threaten
He told Manx.News: “I believe that the plain meaning of these public communications is to vilify and threaten Jews on the Isle of Man in a menacing and harassing manner.”
Mr Josem contrasts the perceived inaction in these cases with the prosecution of two individuals in 2025 who were fined £330 each for making racist remarks to Muslim taxi drivers. He argues this demonstrates “two-tier policing”.
“If you say nasty things about Muslims, the government will come down on you like a tonne of bricks,” Mr Josem said. “If you say things about Jews and you threaten Jews, you harass Jews, you menace Jews, they’ll let it slide.”
He is calling for authorities to ensure Jews receive the same legal protections as other groups and for a “public, independent and comprehensive investigation into antisemitism in the Isle of Man.”
Investigation
In response, Superintendent Danny Rotchell, Operations Superintendent, stated he could not comment on specific cases to avoid prejudice, confirming one matter “remains an ongoing investigation”.
He expressed disappointment that Mr Josem publicised his concerns ahead of a pre-arranged meeting, adding: “The suggestion of two-tier policing I am afraid is something that I do not recognise at all, and to be clear I entirely disagree with.
“We deal with each incident reported to the police from an independent position and investigate in line with available and relevant legislation.”
Mr Josem also revealed that security concerns have led to the cancellation of the public Holocaust Memorial Day ceremony scheduled for January 2026, and that Hanukkah celebrations have been held privately in recent years.
“It’s a real sadness that the Isle of Man is not able to have that in 2026,” he said.
Police statement in full –
I am unable to comment regarding specific matters referenced by Mr Josem in order to ensure they are not further prejudiced; other than to say that the matter remains an ongoing investigation.
Superintendent Danny Rotchell
It is disappointing that for whatever reason Mr Josem has chosen to conduct an interview and publish his letter immediately prior to, and on the same day, a prearranged meeting with myself, where this could have been addressed.
The suggestion of two-tier policing I am afraid is something that I do not recognise at all, and to be clear I entirely disagree with. We deal with each incident reported to the police from an independent position and investigate in line with available and relevant legislation.
As an organisation we remain committed to working with all communities in ensuring the Island remains a safe place for all.”