A survey reveals: an alarming increase in anti-Semitism towards Jewish youth abroad

A new comprehensive survey reveals a significant and disturbing increase in anti-Semitism towards Jewish youth in high schools around the world, following the events of October 7th. The survey, conducted by “Mosaic Youth”, a division of “Mosaic United” – a joint initiative of the Ministry of Diaspora and the fight against anti-Semitism in Israel and Jewish philanthropy – presents a worrying picture of the reality faced by young Jews around the world.

The findings indicate a global increase of 29.1% in the experience of anti-Semitism among Jewish youth, with a sharp jump of 45.9% outside the United States. Almost half of the respondents reported personal anti-Semitic experiences, with the vast majority occurring in school. Of particular concern is the fact that over two-thirds of the youth point to their classmates as the main source of hostility.

The survey also reveals a disturbing phenomenon of anti-Semitism on the part of the school faculty, when about a quarter of the respondents reported anti-Semitic expressions on the part of teachers and administrators. Furthermore, a significant percentage of the students encountered anti-Semitic content in the study materials themselves.

The consequences of this reality are evident in significant behavioral changes among the Jewish students. Many of them began to avoid wearing Jewish symbols, hesitate to publish Jewish or Israeli content on social networks, and even feel the need to hide their Jewish identity. Of particular concern is the fact that the vast majority of respondents felt that their concerns were dismissed or belittled.

Elena Ibn of Mosaic United emphasizes: “Anti-Semitism is on the rise and it is everywhere, it has no age and it has no place. It is felt in all Jewish communities, so we need to pay attention to it and deal with it correctly.”

The Minister of the Diaspora and the Fight against Anti-Semitism, Amichai Shikli, responded to the findings and said: “The findings show us the growing challenge facing young Jews around the world. We are committed to leading global efforts together with our international partners and the Jewish community to ensure that Jewish students everywhere can proudly embrace their identity Jewish without fear”.

The findings of the survey emphasize the urgent need for a joint effort to fight anti-Semitism in educational institutions and ensure a safe and respectful learning environment for all students.