Rising Anti-Jewish Harassment Worldwide: A Look at the Global Landscape in 2020
In a disturbing incident of antisemitism, tombstones at the Oestre Kirkegaard Jewish cemetery in Randers, Denmark, were found painted with green graffiti. This act of vandalism is just one example of the harassment faced by Jewish people around the world, as documented in a recent study by the Pew Research Center.
According to the study, Jewish people were targeted in 94 countries in 2020, with incidents ranging from verbal and physical assaults to vandalism of cemeteries. This marks an increase from previous years, highlighting the ongoing issue of antisemitism globally.
The Pew Research Center’s annual report on global restrictions on religion tracks harassment by governments or social groups in nearly 200 countries and territories. Despite Jews making up only a small percentage of the world’s population, they have been targeted in more countries than any other major religious group besides Christians and Muslims.
In 2020, Jews faced government restrictions or social hostilities in countries across Europe, the Middle East-North Africa region, the Americas, Asia-Pacific region, and sub-Saharan Africa. Incidents included physical assaults, vandalism of Jewish cemeteries, and the spread of antisemitic conspiracy theories related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
From Brazil to Iran to the United States, acts of harassment against Jewish individuals and communities were documented, underscoring the global nature of this issue. The study also found that other religious groups, including Christians, Muslims, and Buddhists, have also faced increasing harassment in recent years.
While the Pew Research Center’s report sheds light on the prevalence of antisemitism worldwide, it does not seek to determine which religious group faces the “most persecution.” The study serves as a reminder of the importance of combating hatred and discrimination against all religious communities.
As incidents of antisemitism continue to occur, it is crucial for governments, organizations, and individuals to work together to promote tolerance, understanding, and respect for all faiths. The desecration of tombstones at the Oestre Kirkegaard Jewish cemetery in Randers, Denmark, serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address and confront antisemitism wherever it arises.