The findings, published in the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) latest Global 100 Index, reveal that younger generations are significantly more likely to hold prejudiced views about Jews than older adults.
According to the survey, 40% of adults under 35 believe that Jews are responsible for “starting most of the world’s wars,” compared to just 29% of those over the age of 50. This stark contrast underscores the growing prevalence of antisemitic sentiments among younger demographics.
Equally alarming is the increasing denial of the Holocaust among young people. Only 39% of adults aged 18 to 34 affirm the Holocaust’s “historical accuracy,” a significantly lower percentage than the 48% seen in older generations. This denial is part of a broader pattern of antisemitic misinformation that is gaining traction, particularly among those who consume their news and information from social media platforms.
Social media and digital platforms are playing a significant role in amplifying harmful stereotypes and conspiracies about Jews. A large portion of respondents from younger age groups reported believing in common antisemitic tropes, such as the notion that Jews have “a lot of irritating faults” and “don’t care what happens to anyone who isn’t of their faith.” Additionally, 56% of young adults believe that “Jews’ loyalty is only to Israel,” and 46% claim that “Jews have too much control over global affairs.”
Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the ADL, called the rise in antisemitism “nothing short of a global emergency.” He stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to combat this hate, including new government interventions, better education, and stricter safeguards on social media platforms. “This fight requires a whole-of-society approach,” Greenblatt said, emphasizing that action is needed now to prevent further harm.
In response to the growing threat of antisemitism, President Joe Biden appointed Holocaust historian Deborah Lipstadt as the U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism. Lipstadt has worked to address the rising tide of hatred through both public and private initiatives. Reflecting on her tenure, she noted, “Instead of only screaming and yelling and condemning what was going on, we got the government to take it seriously.”
As antisemitic beliefs continue to proliferate, especially among younger generations, it is clear that more robust measures are needed to curb the spread of hate and misinformation, protect Jewish communities, and educate the public on the dangers of antisemitism.
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