Anti-Semitism in Lower Saxony: Peak of 650 incidents in 2024!

Anti-Semitism in Lower Saxony: Peak of 650 incidents in 2024!

The alarming development of anti-Semitic incidents in Lower Saxony leaves no room for doubt: society is facing a serious challenge. In 2024, an incredible 650 anti-Semitic incidents were documented, doubling the previous year's 349 cases. These numbers are the highest level since RIAS Lower Saxony began recording in 2021, as the [Amadeu Antonio Foundation] reports. The aftermath of the Hamas massacre and the conflict in Israel and Gaza has a direct impact on society, fostering a climate in which anti-Semitic speech and actions are on the rise.

The majority of reported cases occurred in public spaces, online and particularly in educational institutions. This shows that anti-Semitism is not only a hidden but also an open problem that requires intensive social debate. With its fourth annual report, RIAS Lower Saxony aims to shed light on the dark field of anti-Semitism and draw attention to the personal experiences of Jews in Lower Saxony. In addition, the structure that enables personal experiences is discussed, even though these are not the cause of anti-Semitic statements.

Frequent incidents and serious violence

The number of people directly affected was 215 and reflects a real threat that those affected often do not pursue out of fear or a lack of trust in law enforcement. For example, in April 2024 there was an arson attack on a synagogue in Oldenburg, in which a 28-year-old threw an incendiary device against the door and was subsequently admitted to a psychiatric hospital. Such incidents not only highlight how physical violence against Jews is increasing, but also how deeply anti-Semitic attitudes are embedded in some people's minds.

On the streets, anti-Semitism becomes visible through insults, such as calling a girl in Oldenburg a “dirty Jew.” In Hanover, too, a woman suffered an attack while a helper was insulted and threatened. These events are part of a larger trend: after the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, Israel-related anti-Semitism increased significantly, increasing the debate around the issue.

Political reactions and social responsibility

The calls for a decisive fight against hatred of Jews are becoming louder, and various actors from politics and society are pulling together. Gerhard Wegner, the Lower Saxony state representative against anti-Semitism, is calling for decisive action against this form of hate. Michael Grünberg from the Jewish Community of Osnabrück also emphasizes the need for law enforcement and prevention. A common concern that is also heard in the state parliament: All parliamentary groups support measures against anti-Semitism, and proposals from the SPD, Greens and CDU show that the issue is at the top of the political agenda.

But the challenge remains great. Anti-Semitism is a complex problem that is still rampant in parts of German society even 70 years after the Holocaust. A survey by Statista shows that 30% of those surveyed have experienced anti-Semitic “jokes,” and 15% report derogatory comments about Jews in their circle of friends. This development can be observed not only locally, but also in the broader national context: in 2024, there were 8,627 documented anti-Semitic incidents nationwide, which corresponds to an increase of almost 77 percent compared to the previous year.

It remains to be hoped that with greater awareness and a collective commitment to combating anti-Semitism, it will be possible to establish a fundamentally different perspective in society. The pointing finger alone is not enough; It takes courage, moral courage and a strong common stance to resolutely counteract anti-human ideologies.