Tue Oct 01 09:45:45 UTC 2024: ## Antisemitism in the UK Reaches Alarming Levels: New Report

**London, UK** – A new report from the Institute for Jewish Policy Research (JPR) reveals a stark reality: antisemitism in the UK is significantly higher than previously understood. The study, titled “Antisemitism in the aftermath of October 7: What do the data tell us, and what more do we still need to know,” found that one in three British Jews have experienced antisemitism in the nine months following the Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023. This is vastly higher than the 1.9% who reported incidents to the police or the Community Security Trust (CST).

The report highlights a worrying trend of Jews feeling increasingly alienated and threatened by what the researchers call “ambient antisemitism.” This refers to antisemitic attitudes and behaviors that are not necessarily directed at individuals but contribute to a hostile and threatening environment. Examples include tearing down hostage posters, which may be explained away as anti-Zionism but ultimately fuel antisemitic sentiment.

The study also notes a critical gap in research compared to other European countries, urging the UK government and philanthropic community to invest in better research methods to accurately assess attitudes towards Jews and Israel, as well as Jewish people’s experiences of antisemitism.

Dr. Jonathan Boyd, JPR’s executive director, states that “the October 7 attacks on Israel unleashed a wave of antisemitism in the UK and across Europe the like of which most Jews today have never experienced before.” He emphasizes the need for a robust strategy to combat antisemitism, including investing in high-quality research to understand the issue and inform policy.

Further data from the JPR Jewish Current Affairs Survey will be released in October 2024, examining the changing nature of British Jews’ political views about Israel, their feelings of security, and the impact of the current conflict on their connection to Israel and Jewish life in the UK.

The report serves as a stark reminder of the rising tide of antisemitism in the UK and the urgent need for action. It calls for greater awareness, improved data collection, and a more comprehensive approach to tackling this growing threat to Jewish communities.

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