Belgian Jewish Community Fears Rising Antisemitism, Institutional Neglect

Four prominent Jewish individuals in Belgium have shared harrowing accounts detailing a surge in antisemitism and a perceived abandonment by the establishment. Their testimonies, from a public school teacher, a medical assistant in Antwerp, an anti-racism activist, and a former senator, paint a grim picture of a nation where antisemitism has moved from the fringes into mainstream discourse.

The teacher, identified as Nicholas, recounted a physical assault where a student struck her in the face with a shoe, causing a corneal injury. The school administration reportedly dismissed the incident as unintentional and did not seek medical attention for her. She also noted that Muslim teachers fear backlash from their communities, while non-Muslim teachers avoid taking students on field trips to synagogues due to potential parental reactions.

Another individual, who was leaving a synagogue on a Saturday in 2025, was intentionally hit by an electric bicycle rider, resulting in a severe leg fracture requiring complex surgeries. He expressed that Belgium is no longer the country he knew in his childhood, with growing dangers and a superficial sense of security.

Activists like Nehemia criticize the government's delayed decision to redeploy soldiers to guard Jewish institutions, noting the prevalence of graffiti, incitement stickers, and marches calling for an intifada. She stressed the need for strong leadership, strict legislation, and uncompromising enforcement to prevent further deterioration.

The testimonies also highlight a moral betrayal, with a perceived silence from human rights and feminist organizations. The criticism of Israel has, in some cases, become a cover for delegitimizing Jews, comparing them to Nazis, and holding them collectively responsible. The shock since October 7th, according to one account, was not just the explosion of antisemitism but the silence and indifference from organizations expected to show solidarity, questioning the selective application of universal human rights.

These accounts collectively suggest that antisemitism in Belgium is a spreading malignancy affecting institutions, education, and civil society. Many Jews are contemplating emigration to Israel or other countries, viewing the fight against antisemitism as a crucial test for Belgian democracy. A nation unable to protect its Jewish citizens without them having to hide their identity or justify Israel's policies is failing its fundamental values.