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Holocaust Remembrance Day: Report Highlights Antisemitism in Europe

Today, on Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD), we solemnly remember the victims of one of the greatest tragedies in European history. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration camp complex, where millions of lives were lost to unimaginable atrocities. In recognition of this milestone, the Holocaust and the United Nations Outreach Programme has chosen the theme for 2025: Holocaust remembrance and education for dignity and human rights.

As we reflect on the lessons of the past, the 2024 report by the European Network of Legal Experts in Gender Equality and Non-Discrimination (EELN), coordinated by MPG, highlights the ongoing challenges of antisemitism in Europe. The findings reveal a worrying persistence of antisemitic attitudes and actions across the European Union.

A 2021 survey conducted in 16 European countries found that 20% of the population harbours strongly or moderately antisemitic views, with over 50% in six countries exhibiting such tendencies, including latent prejudices. The report also underscores a rise in antisemitic incidents and online content, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian aggression in Ukraine.

While the study includes data up to July 2023, it does not account for the surge in antisemitic incidents following the Hamas attacks on 7 October 2023. This recent escalation highlights the continued urgency of addressing antisemitism across Europe.

The European Union has implemented various legal frameworks, such as the Racial Equality Directive and the EU Strategy on Combating Antisemitism and Fostering Jewish Life (2021–2030). However, the report identifies gaps in enforcement and recommends strengthening protections against hate crimes, hate speech, and discrimination.

As we commemorate the victims of the Holocaust and the 80th anniversary of Auschwitz-Birkenau’s liberation, this report serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance, education, and action. Only by fostering remembrance, dignity, and human rights can Europe ensure a future free from hatred and prejudice.

 

To gain a deeper understanding of the report’s findings and recommendations, we invite you to explore the slides summarising the key insights and information.

About the European network of legal experts in gender equality and non-discrimination

The European Network of legal experts in gender equality and non-discrimination was established in December 2014 and combines two previously existing networks: the European Network of Legal Experts in the Non-discrimination Field and the European Network of Legal Experts in the field of Gender Equality.

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About the Migration Policy Group (MPG)

MPG is an independent think-and-do-tank based in Brussels. MPG’s purpose is rooted in its ability to inspire networks to provide evidence-based projects, research and campaigns in the areas of integration, migration and anti-discrimination.

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