Rudolph Angler Nearly half of the world’s adult population holds strong antisemitic views, double the figures reported ten years ago, according to a new survey by the US-based Anti-Defamation League (ADL).
In some European nations, up to 80% of adults believe in harmful stereotypes, such as Jews controlling media, finance, or being responsible for wars.
“Antisemitism is a global crisis,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the ADL. He called for immediate government action, enhanced education programs, stricter social media regulations, and stronger security measures to curb antisemitic hate crimes.
Growing Antisemitic Sentiment Post-October 2023
Greenblatt linked the rise in antisemitism to the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, Hamas massacre in southern Israel. The attack killed around 1,200 people, with 250 taken hostage. The conflict that followed has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties.
The International Criminal Court has since issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas commanders, citing alleged war crimes.
The ADL report shows antisemitic sentiment is most pervasive in Eastern Europe, with 49% of people expressing such beliefs. Russia leads as the most concerning case in the region. Western Europe, though less affected with an average of 17%, still has individual countries showing significant issues.
Greece, Romania, and Belgium Highlight Persistent Prejudices
Greece stands out with 82% of its population believing Jews hold excessive power in global business. In Romania, 25% claim Jews are responsible for most of the world’s wars.
Belgium also shows troubling findings, where 40% believe Jews have “too much control” over media and global affairs. Additionally, 61% assert that Jews are loyal only to Israel.
The ADL’s findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted interventions to counteract antisemitism globally.