The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) released a report on Thursday revealing that Jews in Europe are experiencing high levels of antisemitism, partially

influenced by the conflict in Gaza.

The survey included in the report shows that over 90 percent of Jewish respondents encountered antisemitism in the past year, and 80 percent believe it has worsened in recent years. These figures have risen compared to a similar survey conducted in 2018. More than half of the Jewish participants expressed concerns about their safety and the safety of their families, with over 70 percent admitting to occasionally concealing their Jewish identity.

Although the survey was conducted before the Gaza conflict and the attacks in October 2023, the FRA consulted with various Jewish umbrella organizations following the Hamas attacks on Israel. These consultations concluded that the attacks and their aftermath have significantly impacted the lives of Jews in the European Union.

Even prior to October 7, security concerns and the physical protection of Jews and Jewish institutions were already pressing issues, but the number of threats against Jewish schools, synagogues, and institutions has since increased. Recent antisemitic acts include damage to a Jewish memorial in Steglitz and vandalism of the Shoah Memorial in Paris.

The report also notes some minor progress and improvements, attributed to efforts such as the EU Strategy on Combating Antisemitism and Fostering Jewish Life (2021-2030) and national strategies to combat antisemitism.

The FRA report calls on the EU and its member states to remain steadfast in their commitment to curbing the rise of antisemitism. Additionally, it emphasizes that the current situation affects not only the Jewish population but also the Muslim community, highlighting the need to promote tolerance, respect, and fundamental freedoms for all. Photo by Beny Shlevich, Wikimedia commons.