The Representative Council of Jewish Institutions in France (CRIF) recently commissioned a study by Ipsos titled “The French Perspective on Antisemitism and the Situation of French Jews – 2024.” This survey, conducted a year after the Hamas terror attack in Israel on 7 October 2023, which triggered a surge in antisemitic acts in France, was published on 21 November 2024 by Le Point. The findings provide crucial insights into the state of antisemitism in France and reveal alarming trends.
The survey shows that 46% of the general population subscribe to at least six of the 16 antisemitic prejudices tested. Among supporters of political parties, this rises to 55% for La France Insoumise (LFI) and 52% for Rassemblement National (RN). Some of the most widespread stereotypes include beliefs that Jews are tightly knit, more loyal to Israel than to France, and wield significant influence through powerful lobbies.
Brice Teinturier, General Manager of Ipsos, highlighted a shift in the demographics expressing antisemitic views. Nearly a quarter of respondents believe that Jews are not truly “like other French people,” an increase of six percentage points since 2020. This indicates a growing polarisation and normalisation of such prejudices.
The survey also reveals contrasting perceptions of the rise in antisemitism. While 70% of the general population believe antisemitism is increasing in France, only 41% of LFI supporters share this view. Furthermore, 25% of LFI supporters express sympathy for Hamas, and 40% refuse to label Hamas as a terrorist organisation. CRIF President Yonathan Arfi criticised LFI for legitimising antisemitism, stating: “LFI has provided antisemitism with political legitimacy. The Palestinian cause has become a pretext for hatred.”
Another concerning finding is the growing sentiment that Jewish emigration is beneficial for France. In 2024, 12% of the general population shared this view, up from 6% in 2020. Among those under 35, the figure rises to 17%, indicating a generational shift in attitudes.
The survey further reveals that only 53% of 18–24-year-olds believe that most Jews are well-integrated into French society, compared to 84% of the general population. This generational divergence highlights a troubling trend of increased alienation of French Jews among younger demographics.
These findings underscore the urgent need to address antisemitism in France, as prejudices persist and evolve across the population, threatening the safety and inclusion of the Jewish community.
