Austria grapples with surge in antisemitic attacks

The Jewish Community in Austria has reported a notable increase in antisemitic incidents across the country, with Vienna being particularly affected. Recent graffiti bearing slogans like “Death to Zionism” and “Victory to Palestine” has appeared on the facades of Jewish businesses in Vienna’s second and 20th districts.

Responding to these troubling developments, National Council President Wolfgang Sobotka, alongside Israel’s Ambassador to Austria David Roet and President of the Israelite Religious Society Austria Oskar Deutsch, took proactive measures in Vienna-Leopoldstadt, a central hub of Jewish life in Austria. They joined forces to paint over the antisemitic graffiti, symbolizing their united stance against hatred and bigotry.

Meanwhile, Austrian Constitutional Minister Karoline Edtstadler is spearheading the third European Conference on Antisemitism, held in Vienna on May 6th and 7th, 2024. This significant gathering brings together international experts to address the surge in antisemitism, both online and offline, triggered by the Israel-Hamas conflict. Additionally, the conference tackles concerning incidents of antisemitism at American universities.

A highlight of the conference is the collaboration between American and European experts, marking the first joint effort of its kind. Notable participants include the US government’s Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt. Dalia Grinfeld, Deputy Director of European Affairs at the Anti-Defamation League, is hosting the conference at the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Vienna.

The opening session features remarks from President of the Austrian Academy of Sciences Heinz Faßmann and Federal Minister Edtstadler, underscoring the collective commitment to combatting antisemitism and fostering Jewish life in Europe.