Antisemitism: Why understanding it is more important than ever

Antisemitism, or anti-Jewish hatred, refers to a deeply rooted and partly unconscious set of beliefs and attitudes directed toward Jews, Jewish communities, or Jewish collectives. It manifests in attitudes, culture, and political activity—and it is always connected to false narratives, commonly known as conspiracy theories.

The many faces of antisemitism

Antisemitism can appear in everyday life in many ways, such as through attitudes, stereotypes, hate speech, or cultural imagery and traditions. On a tangible level, it manifests as discrimination, hate crimes, or political movements aimed at isolating or harming Jews. These actions often seek to undermine the status and rights of Jews in society.

Antisemitism and conspiracy theories – what makes it unique?

One key characteristic of antisemitism is its connection to conspiracy theories and myths that justify hatred and distrust toward Jews. These false narratives depict Jews as an organized collective secretly wielding power in areas such as finance, politics, or the media. Throughout history, such myths have been used to legitimize discrimination, violence, and even genocides like the Holocaust.

Unlike many other forms of discrimination, antisemitism is tied to systematic narratives that not only harm Jewish communities but also destabilize societal structures. It undermines core democratic values, such as equality and justice, and deepens divisions between communities. This fosters instability and threatens a society’s ability to function cohesively and peacefully.

What can we do?

Combating antisemitism begins with raising awareness. By recognizing its manifestations and dismantling the myths that sustain it, we can lay the foundation for a more just and safer society.

AVEK ry works to increase awareness of antisemitism and promote a fairer society. Join us and support our mission—together, we can dismantle harmful myths and build a safer future for all!

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Sources

Czimbalmos, M. & D. Pataricza (2024), Kokemuksia ja näkemyksiä antisemitismistä Suomessa – Selvitys juutalaisiin kohdistuvasta syrjinnästä ja viharikollisuudesta. Ihmisoikeuskeskuksen julkaisuja 3/2024.

Fein, H. ed. (1987), The Persisting Question: Sociological Perspectives and Social Contexts of Modern Antisemitism. de Gruyter.

Lipstadt, D. (2019), Antisemitism: Here and Now. Shocken.

Nirenberg, D. (2014), Anti-Judaism: The Western Tradition. W. W. Norton & Company.