As the latest survey from the EU’s Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) reveals, Jewish people in Europe are facing a significant wave of antisemitism. The survey, which included more than 8,000 respondents from 13 EU countries, highlighted the alarming fact that 96% of Jewish individuals had encountered antisemitism in their daily lives. This widespread issue not only poses a threat to the safety and dignity of Jewish communities but also limits their ability to live without fear of persecution.
One of the key findings of the survey was the prevalence of online harassment experienced by the majority of respondents. While the conflict in the Middle East was identified as a contributing factor to the rise in antisemitism, it was emphasized that this hatred is often manifested in the form of personal harassment, intimidation, and violence in physical spaces such as streets, parks, and shops. Furthermore, the survey indicated that a significant number of Jewish individuals feel compelled to hide their identity occasionally due to safety concerns.
The escalation of reported antisemitic attacks following the Gaza war underscored the urgent need for increased protection of Jewish people and institutions. Countries such as Austria and Sweden saw a shocking increase of over 400% in antisemitic incidents, while Denmark reported a significant rise from nine incidents in 2022 to 121 in the following year. The FRA has emphasized the importance of government intervention in funding security measures for Jewish communities, particularly in schools and synagogues.
In response to these disturbing trends, the FRA has called on governments to take decisive action to combat antisemitism. This includes leveraging existing laws and strategies to protect communities from all forms of hate and intolerance, both online and offline. Additionally, the EU’s Digital Services Act has been recommended as a tool to remove antisemitic content from online platforms and prosecute hate crimes more effectively.
It is imperative for European governments to prioritize the safety and well-being of Jewish communities by addressing the root causes of antisemitism and implementing robust measures to counteract this pervasive form of discrimination. The findings of the FRA survey serve as a stark reminder of the urgency of combating antisemitism in Europe and the critical role that authorities, organizations, and individuals play in fostering a society free from hate and intolerance.
