A recent survey by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reveals a sharp increase in antisemitic attitudes worldwide over the past decade. The study estimates that half of the global adult population harbors antisemitic beliefs, doubling the rate from 10 years ago.
In several European countries, up to 80% of adults reportedly believe in harmful stereotypes, such as Jews controlling the media, businesses, or being responsible for global conflicts.
“Antisemitism represents an alarming global crisis,” said ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt. He stressed the urgent need for government action, enhanced education, stricter social media oversight, and robust security measures to curb antisemitic hate crimes.
Greenblatt attributed part of the rise to events following October 7, 2023, when a Hamas attack in southern Israel killed approximately 1,200 people and took 250 hostages. The subsequent conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian deaths and war crimes allegations against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leaders by the International Criminal Court.
Antisemitism Prevalence in Europe
In Eastern Europe, 49% of people hold antisemitic beliefs, with Russia showing the highest rates. Western Europe fares slightly better, with an average of 17%. However, some countries present concerning statistics.
In Greece, 82% of the population believes Jews have excessive influence in business, while 25% of Romanians claim Jews are to blame for most global wars.
Belgium also emerged as a concerning hotspot, with 40% of its population asserting that Jews exert “too much control” over the media and world affairs. Additionally, 61% believe Jewish citizens are loyal only to Israel, reflecting entrenched biases.
A Call for Action
The ADL’s findings underscore the pressing need for international collaboration to combat rising antisemitism. Targeted educational campaigns, stricter regulations on misinformation, and stronger enforcement of hate crime laws are necessary to address this growing crisis.