Anti-Semitism
Study: Hatred of Jews closely linked to right-wing extremism
Updated on December 11, 2024Reading time: 2 min.
Since the Hamas attack on Israel, there has been a lot of talk in Germany about anti-Semitism from the pro-Palestine scene. A study by the Rias Federal Association takes the view in a different direction.
according to a study, hatred of Jews is closely linked to right-wing extremism. For the years 2019 to 2023, the Rias reporting network assigned 2,284 anti-Semitic incidents to the right-wing extremist spectrum.“This means that the political background of right-wing extremism is the most frequently assigned political spectrum in the period examined,” says the paper “Right-wing extremism and anti-Semitism” published in Potsdam.
Right-wing extremist anti-Semitism is particularly violent, analyzes the Federal Association of Anti-Semitism Reporting Centers.According to the data, six incidents of extreme right-wing violence and 34 attacks have been documented for the period 2019 to 2023. Jewish institutions are particularly at risk, as the attack on the synagogue in Halle in 2019 shows. Anti-Semitic acts of violence are also glorified in the right-wing extremist spectrum.
“Right-wing terrorist anti-Semitism is a central threat to Jews in Germany – and thus also to our democracy,” explained Rias managing director Benjamin Steinitz.
The evaluation largely refers to the time before the attack on Israel by the terrorist association Hamas on October 7, 2023. Since then, many cases of anti-semitism have been attributed to pro-Palestinian activists, especially since fundamental criticism of Israel is usually viewed as anti-Semitic. But Rias writes that Jews in Europe have been unfriendly, threatened and attacked from various political milieus since October 7th – including from the right.
A banner with the inscription “The State of israel is our misfortune” was hung at a right-wing extremist scene meeting in Dortmund.Stickers with slogans such as “Free yourself from the guilt cult” appeared in a Nazi memorial in Hanover, some with references to the youth organization of the right-wing extremist party “Die Heimat” (formerly NPD).
The right-wing extremist, conspiracy ideology and anti-Israel content that is constantly available at meetings and on the Internet contributes to the normalization of these narratives, it goes on to say. “Right-wing extremist anti-Semitic narratives are increasingly finding support among the population,” observes Rias. The umbrella organization refers to “defense of memory” and relativizations of the Shoah, as expressed by AfD politicians.
The Federal Association of Anti-Semitism Research and Information Centers is a contact point for people who experiance or observe anti-Semitism. The information is recorded, checked and bundled at Rias.
How can educational programs effectively address and reduce anti-Semitism in society?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Sarah Cohen, Expert in Anti-Semitism Studies
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Cohen. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the critical findings of the recent study linking anti-Semitism to right-wing extremism.
Dr. Sarah Cohen: Thank you for having me. It’s an critically important topic that needs attention.
Editor: The study reveals that anti-Semitism,particularly from right-wing extremists,is notably violent.Can you elaborate on how this violence manifests in society?
Dr. Cohen: Absolutely. The relationship between anti-Semitism and right-wing extremism is alarming. We’ve seen that this form of hatred often leads to aggressive actions, including physical assaults, vandalism of Jewish sites, and even deadly attacks. it’s rooted in a historical context where Jews have been scapegoated for various societal issues,and these narratives are dangerously revived in extremist circles.
Editor: It’s disheartening to hear that this issue persists. the Rias Federal Association has highlighted this connection. What do you think drives individuals or groups towards such extremist views?
Dr. Cohen: There are multiple factors at play. Economic insecurity, cultural disintegration, and an increasing sense of alienation can push people toward extremist ideologies.Right-wing groups often exploit these feelings, using anti-Semitic rhetoric to build a sense of community and purpose among their followers. They create an ‘us vs. them’ narrative, which can be particularly appealing in times of crisis.
Editor: That makes sense. How can communities effectively combat this rising tide of anti-Semitism and right-wing extremism?
Dr. Cohen: Education is key.By fostering understanding of Jewish history and the dangers of prejudice, we can build a more inclusive society. Additionally, strong anti-hate policies and community engagement initiatives can help counteract extremist narratives. Collaboration between religious groups, educational institutions, and law enforcement can create a unified front against hatred.
Editor: Speaking of collaboration, do you think social media plays a role in spreading these extremist views?
Dr. Cohen: Certainly. Social media can amplify hateful rhetoric and connect like-minded individuals, providing an echo chamber for extremist beliefs. It’s crucial for platforms to take obligation and implement measures to detect and discourage anti-Semitic content while promoting counter-narratives.
Editor: Given the complexity of this challenge, what would you say is the most urgent action that needs to be taken today?
Dr. Cohen: We need to prioritize awareness and education. Establishing programs that tackle anti-Semitism in schools, workplaces, and public discourse can foster a more informed and compassionate society. It’s about changing not just the behavior of individuals, but the culture surrounding anti-Semitism as a whole.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. cohen. Your insights are invaluable as we continue to shine a light on this important issue. It’s critical that we stay informed and proactive in combating hatred in all its forms.
Dr. Cohen: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic. It’s never too late to make a positive change.
Editor: And thank you to our audience. Stay tuned for more discussions on pressing issues shaping our world today.