Berlin has reported an unprecedented number of antisemitic incidents, with the first half of 2024 surpassing the total for all of 2023.
According to a report from the German Federal Association of Research and Information Departments (RIAS), there were 1,383 documented incidents in Berlin from January to June, averaging seven to eight per day.
This figure exceeds the 1,270 incidents recorded throughout 2023 and represents the highest annual total since RIAS began tracking antisemitic incidents in 2015.
The report detailed that among these incidents were two cases of extreme violence and 23 attacks. There were also 37 instances of deliberate property damage, including 21 cases involving memorials, 28 threats, and 1,240 occurrences of offensive behavior. RIAS expressed concern over the nature of these events, citing reports of Jewish or Israeli children being beaten or spat on by classmates.
Antisemitic incidents within educational institutions have notably increased, with 74 reported cases, including 27 in schools.
Since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent Israeli military response in Gaza, RIAS has noted an average of 230 incidents per month. The report indicated that 71.6% of these cases were related to Israel and highlighted a trend where antisemitic expressions are becoming more socially acceptable.
