The local legislature passed by an overwhelming majority of 283 votes a bill that redefines the concept of anti-Semitism in the country and includes it as a specific hate crime against Jews.
Now it remains the signature of President Volodymyr Zalansky in order for it to become official law.
"The lack of a clear definition of anti-Semitism in Ukrainian legislation does not allow for the correct classification of crimes committed and this leads to an escape from actual punishment," the drafters of the law in the "Supreme Rada", the Ukrainian parliament stated.
In addition, according to the law, victims of anti-Semitism will be able to claim compensation and damages from their perpetrators and as stated under the new wording, the burning of buildings of Jews, monuments or religious institutions will be included in an earlier vote.
Following the approval of the anti-Semitism law in the Ukrainian parliament, Yaakov Hagoel, chairman of the World Zionist Organization and acting chairman of the Jewish Agency, said: "Congratulations to the Ukrainian parliament on the precedent-setting step.
This is an important milestone in a long international struggle.
"I hope that the passage of the law in parliament will be a model for parliaments around the world, and I believe that my friend the President of Ukraine will sign the law in order for it to take effect."
Less than one percent of the total population in Ukraine Eight about 40 million inhabitants are Jews.
This year marks eight decades since the massacre of the Jews of Babi Yar, one of the most brutal murders by the Nazis in World War II with over 30,000 murdered.
Participated in the preparation of the article: Yuri Yalon, Daniela Tzirolnik
