EU Reports Surge in Anti-Semitism

Europe has witnessed a significant rise in anti-Semitic attacks since Israel's operation in the Gaza Strip and the onset of the global economic crisis, a report by the EU's Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) in Vienna released on March 2 concludes. The study shows that the number of anti-Semitic incidents in EU countries declined in 2007 and most of 2008 only to see a sudden upsurge since December.

“This surge in anti-Semitic incidents is reason for great concern," said FRA director Morten Kjaerum, adding: "While it is too early to draw conclusions, there are indications that this rise could partly be affected by the situation in the Middle East, as well as by the global financial crisis." The report notes an increase in attacks against Jewish persons and synagogues in Belgium, Britain, France, and the Netherlands.

More than 130 anti-Semitic incidents were recorded in France since December. Six synagogues and community buildings in Holland were attacked in January. There were 24 anti-Semitic incidents recorded in Britain in January, while other incidents were reported in Spain, Sweden, and Germany, the study said.

"Everyone has the right to feel safe and protected, whatever religious belief or ethnic origin. Political and community leaders across the EU have an obligation to make it clear that intolerance and aggression in any form are completely unacceptable,” said Kjaerum.

(By Staff, World Jewish Congress, March 3, 2009)

Prayer Focus
Pray that the world community will come to recognize the evil of anti-Semitism with governments as well as citizens refusing to allow it to continue. Pray that the church in particular will rise up in defense of God’s people, recognizing that an attack on them is indeed an attack on God Himself.

Scripture
“Do not keep silent, O God! Do not hold Your peace, and do not be still, O God! For behold, Your enemies make a tumult; and those who hate You have lifted up their head. They have taken crafty counsel against Your people, and consulted together against Your sheltered ones” (Psalm 83:1–3).