Czech Republic Reports Record High in Antisemitic Incidents for 2024

Record Surge in Antisemitic Incidents

The Federation of Jewish Communities in the Czech Republic (FŽO) has released its annual report, revealing a historic peak in antisemitic incidents across the country during 2024. A total of 4,694 incidents were registered, marking an 8.5% increase compared to the 4,328 cases reported in 2023. This surge underscores a growing concern within the Jewish community and among human rights observers.

Increased Severity and Nature of Incidents

The report indicates a notable escalation in the severity of antisemitic acts, particularly following the events of October 7, 2023. For the first time, four physical attacks were recorded in 2024, a significant rise from zero in the preceding year. All these physical assaults were directly linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The vast majority of incidents, approximately 96%, occurred online, primarily on social media platforms. Beyond physical violence, the report also documented 12 cases of vandalism targeting Jewish cemeteries, monuments, and other sites, which is double the number from the previous year.

Official Statements and Context

Petr Papoušek, head of the FŽO, commented on the findings, stating that the Czech Republic is not an exception to 'a global explosive wave of antisemitism which erupted immediately after the Hamas attack.' He further noted that 'hatred of Jews — especially through the demonization of the State of Israel — had become socially acceptable and dominated the public sphere.'

Papoušek highlighted an 'unprecedented synergy' among various ideological groups, including the far right, far left, Islamism, and disinformation networks, all united by 'hatred of Israel, which works with the motives, narratives, conspiracies and myths of traditional antisemitism.'

A particularly serious incident cited in the report was an attempted arson attack on a synagogue in Brno in January 2024. Police investigations classified this event as an attempted terrorist act with Islamist motivation, leading to the arrest of five teenagers and terror-related charges against two of them.

Despite Rise, Czechia Remains Relatively Safe

Despite the alarming increase in antisemitic incidents, the FŽO's report concluded that the Czech Republic continues to be considered a relatively safe country for its Jewish community when compared to other nations and regions. The Federation of Jewish Communities serves as an umbrella organization representing 10 Czech Jewish Communities and other independent Jewish institutions, actively monitoring and combating antisemitism.