A new report by AJC Berlin and the Jewish Student Union of Germany (JSUD) reveals a significant rise in campus antisemitism since October 7, 2023. The study, titled „Antisemitism at German Universities”, highlights how Jewish students increasingly feel unsafe, often avoiding campuses, hiding their identity, or fearing to express their opinions due to anti-Israel and antisemitic hostility, reports The Jerusalem Post.
JSUD President Hanna Veiler stated that while some universities and the German Rectors’ Conference have begun to address the issue, many institutions lack effective prevention and intervention measures. As a result, antisemitic incidents often go unpunished.
„Since October 7, many universities have ceased to be safe places for Jewish students. They stay away from campus out of fear, hide their Jewish identity, or are afraid to express their opinions due to massive anti-Israel and antisemitic agitation,” Veiler explained.
The report calls for more decisive action from universities and politicians to ensure safe and inclusive learning environments.
Dr. Remko Leemhuis, director of AJC Berlin, warned that antisemitism on campuses is not only a threat to Jewish students but also undermines freedom of expression and academic discourse.
„It is all the more dismaying that Jewish students often receive little or no support even from university administrations, and that to this day, antisemitic hostility and attacks are relativised or even negated,” he said.
Leemhuis also criticised universities for failing to take action against antisemitic activities, such as the occupation of lecture halls, stating that sanctions such as police reports or campus bans are rarely enforced.
The report urges university administrations, policymakers, and non-Jewish students to actively combat antisemitism and not turn a blind eye to the rising hostility and attacks on Jewish students.
The findings reflect broader concerns about escalating antisemitism in Germany, particularly in academic institutions, and the need for urgent measures to protect Jewish students from discrimination and violence.
Photo Credit:RIAS
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