Critics say the definition Harvard adopted conflates criticism of Israel with antisemitism and could chill pro-Palestinian speech.

Many universities have been reluctant to embrace a definition that, among other things, considers some criticisms of Israel as antisemitic. The university’s decision was part of a lawsuit settlement.

Harvard's acceptance of IHRA definition settles discrimination case brought by students who said pro-Palestine protests were antisemitic

The Massachusetts university agreed to pay an undisclosed amount to the plaintiffs, but it did not admit to any wrongdoing or liability.

Harvard University has settled two lawsuits accusing the Ivy League school of failing to protect Jewish students from antisemitic bullying and harassment on campus.

The Ivy League school agreed to boost protections for Jewish students.

Several other schools have recently settled similar lawsuits, and suits are pending against others, including the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University.