German Schools Grapple With Rising Antisemitism Among Youth

A recent report from Gladbeck, Germany, highlights a disturbing trend of antisemitism in schools, where students use slurs like "Jew" and graffiti calling for the murder of Jews has appeared. The article notes that incidents of Holocaust denial or downplaying, coupled with blaming Jewish students for Israel's actions, are becoming more common. While some adults dismiss these as youthful ignorance, the article argues that teenagers understand the derogatory intent behind such language and perceive Jewish identity as something to be condemned.

Nationwide, the Research and Information Center for Antisemitism (RIAS) recorded 715 antisemitic incidents in educational institutions in 2025, with 258 in schools and 410 in universities. Since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, the nature of antisemitism in schools has evolved. While traditional antisemitic tropes persist, they are now often intertwined with anti-Israel sentiment, which is frequently disguised as legitimate political criticism.

The article clarifies that while criticism of Israel is permissible, it crosses into antisemitism when the Jewish state is demonized, compared to Nazi Germany, or targeted for elimination. It is also antisemitic to hold Jewish children responsible for the Israeli government's policies or demand they distance themselves from it, as Jewish students are not ambassadors for Israel.

Educators are urged to intervene more decisively, rather than adopting a false neutrality that equates aggressors and victims. The article calls for better training for teachers on identifying and combating antisemitism, particularly the brand linked to Israel. Despite existing programs and resources in Germany, incidents are often downplayed or mishandled, undermining efforts to combat hatred.

The piece emphasizes that schools play a crucial role in either resisting or allowing antisemitism to take root. It advocates for every antisemitic incident to be properly classified and recorded, for victims to have access to confidential support, and for parents to be informed. Repeat offenders should face clear disciplinary measures, and authorities should be involved in cases of threats, incitement, violence, or the use of prohibited symbols. Ultimately, the responsibility lies with adults to address antisemitism, not to burden Jewish children with explaining or reconciling such hatred.