Apr 14, 2021

USCIRF Releases Report on Antisemitism in Europe and Implications for U.S. Policy

Washington, DC – The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) today released a new report titled “Antisemitism in Europe,” which assesses antisemitism in select European countries and implications for U.S. policy.

Antisemitism in Europe - Jews around the world face government and societal obstacles, which can often contribute to feelings of insecurity and ostracization. This report focuses on levels of antisemitism in 11 countries in Europe based on three factors: the prevalence of antisemitic attitudes among the public; the number and nature of antisemitic incidents; and the tolerance for antisemitic rhetoric in public. It also examines U.S. foreign policy as it relates to combating antisemitism in Europe. Through interviews with current and former policymakers, the report provides actionable recommendations for Executive and Legislative branch agencies that play significant roles in foreign policy aimed at supporting the global Jewish community.

The release of this report follows a USCIRF Conversation held in September 2020 regarding antisemitism in Europe which highlighted new antisemitic trends since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. In October 2020, USCIRF published a factsheet on ritual slaughter laws in Europe that threaten access to kosher and halal meat.

USCIRF will be holding a webinar to launch the report today at 10:30 AM ET.  Please register for this event here.

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The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan federal government entity established by the U.S. Congress to monitor, analyze, and report on religious freedom abroad. USCIRF makes foreign policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State, and Congress intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion and belief. To interview a Commissioner, please contact USCIRF at [email protected].