Germany’s antisemitism commissioner Felix Klein claims there has been a “tsunami of antisemitism” since Hamas’s October 7 raid on Israel.
- Klein claims that “open and aggressive antisemitism in all its forms” was “stronger than at any time since 1945,” both in Germany and worldwide.
By the numbers: The 2023 annual report on antisemitic incidents in Germany reveals a sharp rise in incidents following October 7th, with around 5,000 incidents reported in 2023—half occurring after the raid.
- A closer look at the report reveals that most incidents are not violent. Only 7 cases of extreme violence, 121 assaults, and 183 threats were reported.
- The majority of these incidents, totaling 4,060—including 833 protests—are classified as abusive behavior, which covers all “antisemitic statements”, whether made in person or online, as long as they target specific individuals or institutions.
- The report uses the controversial working definition of antisemitism from the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance which effectively labels any criticism of Israel or the Jewish people as a form of “antisemitism.”
Inflated Statistics: The number of incidents may be inflated as entire protests are labeled “antisemitic” if any antisemitic content is found in calls, speeches, slogans, or displayed on banners and posters during the event.
- Additionally, any antisemitic assaults or threats that occur on the sidelines of these gatherings are documented as separate incidents.
Germany’s Antisemitism Czar: Felix Klein became Germany’s first-ever antisemitism commissioner in May 2018, following a Bundestag resolution calling for more decisive action against anti-Jewish hatred.
- His office was established with an annual budget of one million euros and 13 additional staff positions at the Interior Ministry.
- Klein has demanded that antisemitism programs “not be cut,” referencing government negotiations over next year’s federal budget, which are expected to include cuts in funding due to Germany’s economic woes.
Between the lines: Despite the alarming rhetoric, Klein maintains that Germany is better prepared than other countries.
- Antisemitism commissioners have been appointed in all federal regions, creating a nationwide network to monitor and crack down on criticism of Israel or Jews.
- “More awareness” among police and prosecutors has led to improved response to antisemitic incidents.
- No noticeable trend of Jewish people leaving Germany has been observed, suggesting Klen’s claims of a “tsunami of antisemitism” may be overblown.
Why it matters: Klein is one of numerous “antisemitism czars” appointed in Western countries over the last decade as the international Jewish community faces increasing domestic and geopolitical challenges to their power and privileges.
