In 2023, Belgium recorded a record number of 144 reports of anti-Semitic acts. Antwerp and Brussels are on the front line, accounting for more than 90% of the incidents recorded, including 21 attacks. Why are these two cities the most affected by this worrying phenomenon?
According to antisemitism.be, Antwerp is the city where the most anti-Semitic acts have been recorded in Belgium in 2023. This situation is explained in particular by the strong presence of the Jewish community in the city. Brussels follows closely, being the second city where the most Jews live in Belgium.
The year 2023 is marked by a significant increase in anti-Semitic acts, with 144 reports. This increase is partly linked to the October 7 attacks in Israel. According to Joël Kotek, historian and president of the Jonathan Institute, anti-Semitism has accelerated since that date, as well as after the attacks on Jewish supporters in Amsterdam. “We are witnessing a decomplexion of words and now actions,” he confides.
Why Antwerp?
The visibility of the Jewish community in Antwerp is a key factor. “Jews in this city are more recognizable than elsewhere and become targets more easily,” explains Joël Kotek. The Orthodox Jewish community, which is very present in Antwerp, wears traditional clothing that sets them apart, which can expose them more to attacks.
After the incidents in Amsterdam, several messages calling for violence against Jews have circulated in Antwerp in recent days. This situation alarms the authorities and organizations fighting anti-Semitism, who call for vigilance and measures to ensure the safety of the community.
Aversion on the rise
The Jonathans Institute conducted a survey revealing that 14% of Belgians express an aversion to Jews. This figure is significantly higher than in France, where this feeling concerns 6% of the population, according to an Ifop survey. Antipathy for Jews reaches 22% in Brussels, 16% in Flanders and 9% in Wallonia. These data highlight growing concern about the perception of Jews in Belgium.
Faced with this alarming situation, organizations like the Jonathas Institute are working to “objectivize anti-Semitism in all its forms” and “keep Jews in Belgium”. It is essential to raise public awareness, promote inter-community dialogue and strengthen actions to combat all forms of discrimination and hatred.
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