Immediate Danger
When the Situation Feels Threatening Right Now
Immediate danger refers to a situation where there is a real and current risk of physical harm or serious psychological harm.
In antisemitic situations, danger does not always begin as physical violence – it often develops through threats, targeting, and the creation of fear.
Immediate danger does not only mean that someone is hitting or attacking you.
It also refers to situations where there is a reasonable reason to fear that this could happen.
When Can an Antisemitic Situation Be an Immediate Danger?
Immediate danger is not always easy to recognize, especially in antisemitic situations. Often there is no single moment when everything suddenly becomes “clearly dangerous.” Instead, a situation may develop quickly or feel vaguely threatening.
A situation may involve immediate danger if one of the following applies:
If any of these situations feel familiar and you believe you may be in danger, the next step is to focus on your safety.
You Are Being Threatened
You are told or it is implied that you will be harmed or punished. The threat may be direct or indirect, but its meaning is clear to you.
The Situation Is Escalating
The situation quickly becomes hostile or difficult to control. Someone approaches you aggressively, or you no longer feel able to manage the situation.
The Threat Is Targeted
The threat is not general speech – it is directed specifically at you. The situation refers to you, your location, or identifiable aspects of who you are.
You Feel Unsafe
Tilanne The situation causes feelings of fear, anxiety, or insecurity.
You may find yourself thinking about how to leave the situation or protect yourself
What to Do If You Are in Immediate Danger
If you feel that you are in immediate danger, your safety is the most important priority.
You do not need to be certain about how serious the situation is or whether it meets any official definition. It is enough that you feel unsafe or fear that the situation may escalate.
In an Emergency, Always Call 112
If you fear violence, feel that the situation is threatening, or are unsure how to act, call the emergency number 112 immediately.
The emergency services will assess the situation and advise you on how to proceed.
Assessing the situation is the responsibility of the authorities – not yours.
You Do Not Need to Be Sure to Take Action
You do not need to be sure how serious the situation is or whether it meets any official definition.
It is enough that you feel unsafe or fear that the situation may escalate.
Uncertainty should never prevent you from seeking help.
