Increase in Antisemitic Incidents Reported in Thuringia
In 235 out of 297 occurrences, antisemitic remarks were reported, appearing in spoken, written, and visual forms. The report, published on Tuesday, indicates a shift from the digital sphere to the physical world, as per the annual publication.
With a 48% frequency, post-Holocaust antisemitism continues to be the most prevalent form of antisemitism in Thuringia. This comprises the minimization of Holocaust atrocities, expressions of Nazi praise, and assaults on the remembrance culture. Remarkably, assaults on the remembrance culture saw an increase in 2023, becoming "more hostile."
Antisemitic incidents in Thuringia in 2023 were linked to the Middle East conflict as well. These incidents were witnessed at demonstrations, both against Israel and in support of Israel. Additionally, "antisemitic slurs" were voiced in response to pro-Israeli statements, for instance, by Thuringian politicians. Incidents also took place near Erfurt synagogues, including graffiti and paper burning that mirrored Israel's war conflicts.
Rias Thuringia serves as a documentation and reporting center for antisemitic incidents. Notably, this was the first time they published a report for 2021.
The increase in assaults on remembrance culture led to a rise in overtly hostile antisemitic incidents in 2023. Moreover, several antisemitic incidents occurred near Erfurt synagogues, involving graffiti and paper burning, which mimicked Israel's war conflicts.
