A new nationwide study reveals that nearly all Jews in Denmark have experienced or witnessed antisemitism in the past year, prompting many to alter their daily lives and adopt security measures out of fear for their safety.
Widespread Antisemitism Impacting Daily Life
A newly published study by the Danish Institute for Human Rights highlights alarming levels of antisemitism experienced by Denmark’s Jewish community. Based on responses from 465 individuals of Jewish background, the report is the most comprehensive investigation of Jewish life in Denmark in over five decades. The report gives new insight into Jews in Denmark.
The findings indicate that 96% of respondents have either encountered or witnessed antisemitism within the past year. Incidents include online abuse, verbal harassment in public, threats, discrimination in the workplace, and even physical attacks. These experiences are leading many to conceal their Jewish identity in public and take steps to protect themselves and their families. The results show how antisemitism affects daily life
Increased Fear Among Jews in Denmark Since the Hamas Attack in October
The study also reveals that antisemitic incidents have seen a significant surge since the outbreak of the 2023 Israel-Hamas conflict. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a deadly terror attack on Israel, which has since led to rising tensions worldwide, including in Denmark.
As a result, 85% of participants report feeling increasingly unsafe in their daily lives since that event. Many have responded by enhancing personal security measures, such as securing secret addresses, removing names from mailboxes, or refraining from wearing visible symbols of Jewish identity like the Star of David or kippahs.
Jewish Identity Often Hidden in Public Spaces
The study shows that Jews in Denmark are significantly adjusting their behavior in public. Over 80% reported that they avoid discussing their background or practicing their religion openly due to the risk of hostile reactions. Many fear becoming targets of harassment or violence if their identity is revealed.
Among younger respondents, the challenges are especially pronounced. Nearly half of the Jews in Denmark youth surveyed say they feel they have to suppress their religious identity to fit in with peers or avoid being ostracized at school.
Securitized Community Gatherings
Attendance at Jewish community events is also affected. Around half of those surveyed state that they only attend religious or cultural gatherings if there is visible security present. This sense of vulnerability reflects fears that such events could be targeted by extremists or hate groups.
The Jews in Denmark community has historically valued openness and integration, but recent developments have forced many to retreat from public life. Some have limited their social circles or stopped attending community functions altogether to avoid drawing attention.
Discrimination in the Workplace
The report also sheds light on the challenges Jewish Danes face in professional environments. Close to 40% of respondents say they are unable to be open about their Jewish heritage at work. Some have experienced inappropriate comments or exclusion linked to their religion or the ongoing Middle East conflict.
The findings suggest that discrimination is not limited to isolated events, but part of a broader atmosphere of intolerance that affects many aspects of daily life, including education, employment, and social engagement.
Government Urged to Act
In response to the findings, the Danish Institute for Human Rights is calling on the government to take concrete actions. Recommendations include launching national initiatives to combat antisemitism, educating employers and educators on how to address hate incidents, and conducting regular follow-up studies on the well-being and experiences of minority groups in Denmark.
The institute emphasizes the Danish state’s responsibility to protect all citizens from prejudice, hatred, and discrimination based on ethnicity or religion. While the study is not statistically representative—due to the unknown number of Jews living in Denmark—it nonetheless delivers a clear signal about the need for systemic changes and improved protection measures.
Key Statistics
– 58% of respondents have taken safety measures in their homes, including getting unlisted addresses or removing names from exterior signage.
– 72% reported avoiding certain public conversations or expressions due to fear of hostile reactions.
As antisemitism in Denmark becomes increasingly visible and normalized, these findings serve as a wake-up call for policymakers, communities, and the broader public to take meaningful steps toward ensuring safety, inclusiveness, and equal rights for all.
