The Jewish Community of Denmark released its report on antisemitic incidents in 2023. There were 121 recorded antisemitic incidents throughout the year – the highest number since the recording and publication of results began in 2012.
The figures show an overwhelming increase in reports following the terrorist attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. These incidents include vandalism, threats, and antisemitic expressions, with a particular tendency to collectively hold Danish Jews responsible for Israel’s policies. This is a worrying trend and is clearly antisemitic, emphasized Henri Goldstein, chairman of the Jewish Community.
“Regardless of one’s opinion on the conflict between Israel and Hamas, it is obviously unfair and antisemitic to hold an entire population group accountable because of their background. This applies to Jews, but naturally also to Israelis and Palestinians residing here. There is a worrying trend where things cannot be distinguished. A trend that spreads from social media to the streets,” says Henri Goldstein, who finds it particularly concerning that children and young people of Jewish descent are being held accountable for Israel’s policies, resulting in taunts, bullying, and two cases of death threats against children and youth.
“It is heartbreaking that the conflict is being brought into Danish schoolyards. As adults, we have a special responsibility to be clear that this is not acceptable, and that schools and other educational institutions should be safe for everyone,” says Henri Goldstein.
The full report (in Danish) can be read in this link : https://mosaiske.dk/wp-content/uploads/akvah-rapport-om-antisemitiske-haendelser-2023.pdf
