7
Feb
2024
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Need to fight the increase of antisemitism and anti-Muslim hatred (debate)
Madam President, unfortunately, anti-Semitism is deeply rooted racism in European society. It poses an existential threat to the Jewish community and to the fundamental objectives of the EU. Two weeks ago, we commemorated Holocaust Day, but we still haven't found a sufficiently effective way to pass on this horrific story of our history to our children and to the people of our society in general. This is urgent because anti-Semitism is on the rise. The RIAS Anti-Semitism Monitoring Organisation reported that since October 7, the number of anti-Semitic incidents in Germany has increased by 2.5 times. In Austria, this is even three times higher. France and a number of other European countries are also reporting a large increase in these attacks, so Jewish citizens do not really feel safe in their home countries in Europe. Hate comes not only from right-wing extremists, but also from left-wing extremists and Islamic extremists referring to the war in the Middle East. At the same time, only a third of the population in the EU sees anti-Semitism as a major problem and social media plays a crucial role in inciting hatred. This situation requires a clear and decisive response. I am pleased that President von der Leyen presented the EU strategy on combating antisemitism in 2021, but the revision of the Victims’ Rights Directive needs to be finalised as soon as possible to better support victims of these crimes. And the rise of anti-Semitism is undoubtedly a major challenge for the EU. I believe we can handle it together.