Antisemitism continues to be a problem within the EU, impacting Jews both online and offline. Many Jews feel unsafe and face frequent harassment, leading them to hide their Jewish identity. These findings are from the latest EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) survey. While the EU and some Member States have taken steps and implemented action plans to combat antisemitism, more efforts are needed to ensure that Jews can live without fear and discrimination. This is especially crucial given the effects of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on Jewish communities in Europe.
FRA’s third survey on discrimination and hate crimes against Jews in the EU sheds light on their experiences and perceptions of antisemitism, as well as the challenges they encounter in openly practising their Jewish faith. Although the survey predates the Hamas attacks on October 7th, 2023, and Israel’s military response in Gaza, it includes information gathered more recently from 12 Jewish community organisations, revealing that there has been an increase in antisemitic incidents since October 2023, with some organisations reporting a surge of more than 400%.
“Europe is witnessing a wave of antisemitism, partly driven by the conflict in the Middle East. This severely limits Jewish people’s ability to live in safety and with dignity. We need to build on existing laws and strategies to protect communities from all forms of hate and intolerance, online as well as offline. In an increasingly polarised society, we urgently need to spread the message of tolerance and ensure respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms of all,” stated FRA Director Sirpa Rautio.
Based on the survey results, the following key findings were identified:
80% of respondents believe that antisemitism has increased in their country in the five years leading up to the survey. 90% of respondents encountered antisemitism online in the year before the survey. 56% of respondents experienced offline antisemitism from people they know, while 51% encountered it in the media the year before the survey. 37% of respondents reported being harassed because they were Jewish in the year before the survey, with many experiencing harassment multiple times. The majority of antisemitic harassment and violence occurred in public spaces such as streets, parks, and shops. Safety and security concerns remain high, with 53% worrying for their safety and 60% worrying for their family’s safety. 75% of respondents feel that they are being held responsible for the actions of the Israeli government simply because they are Jewish. 76% of respondents conceal their Jewish identity at least occasionally, and 34% avoid Jewish events or sites due to safety concerns. In response to online antisemitism, 24% avoid posting content that would identify them as Jewish, 23% have reduced their participation in online discussions, and 16% have decreased their use of specific online platforms, websites, or services.
The European Union and its Member States have taken steps to tackle antisemitism. They have implemented the EU’s first strategy on the issue and action plans in some countries. The report suggests ways to further this progress. These include monitoring and funding antisemitism strategies and action plans, adopting plans in countries without them, and developing progress indicators. The report also recommends ensuring the safety of Jewish communities by investing in their protection and working closely with them. Addressing antisemitism online by removing such content and adhering to the EU’s Digital Services Act is another crucial aspect. Encouraging reporting and improving the recording of antisemitic incidents through better rights awareness and reporting mechanisms is also highlighted.
The survey includes data from Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Spain, and Sweden, where approximately 96% of the EU’s estimated Jewish population resides. The online survey was conducted from January to June 2023 and involved nearly 8,000 Jews aged 16 or older. It is the third survey, following those undertaken in 2013 and 2018.
