Schuster: The threat of anti-Semitism is growing, Germany's rhetoric must change!

Schuster: The threat of anti-Semitism is growing, Germany's rhetoric must change!

In an insightful interview with the FAZ Joseph Schuster, President of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, sharply criticized the recent statements by Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU). Wadephul spoke of an overdue “forced solidarity” in German foreign policy towards Israel, an expression that Schuster described as a clear “derailment”. Schuster is concerned about the changing tone of German foreign policy, especially after the recent three-way meeting of Austria, Germany and Israel in Vienna.

This discussion must be viewed against the background of increasing anti-Semitism in Germany, which has become increasingly evident since the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7, 2023. In recent years, anti-Semitic incidents, including on social networks, have increased sharply. This is how reports from the Central Council of Jews that aggression against Jewish people comes from different political spectrums and that many Jewish citizens in Germany are afraid of harassment and exclusion.

Anti-Semitism and public perception

Schuster also warns of a dangerous phenomenon: questioning Israel's right to exist crosses the boundaries of legitimate criticism. In this context, he criticizes absurd comparisons between the events in the Gaza Strip and the Srebrenica genocide. This shows that anti-Semitic sentiments are still firmly anchored in public perception, despite the more critical view of open anti-Semitic statements in recent decades.

It is also astonishing to realize that even people born after 1945 hold anti-Semitic views. A survey by the European Fundamental Rights Agency shows that over 90 percent of Jews surveyed in Germany are afraid of anti-Semitism, and two-thirds of Germans acknowledge the problem. Schuster calls for a rethink and more commitment in education in order to start discussing Judaism and the Holocaust in kindergarten.

The role of social networks

Another aspect that Schuster addresses is the responsibility of social media. The anonymity that online platforms provide is a major problem for the spread of hate. Schuster also complains that anti-Semitic statements are often inadequately punished within the framework of freedom of expression. He mentions a case in which a police officer made anti-Semitic comments in a private chat and found the court's reaction to it incomprehensible.

Anti-Semitism is not only evident in more extreme political movements such as right-wing extremism or Islamism, but has also gained a foothold in certain areas of the left and center of society. This is perceived as alarming, especially as open verbal anti-Semitism is becoming increasingly acceptable on social media and has been mobilized over the last few years.

Given these worrying developments, it is necessary to actively research and combat anti-Semitic stereotypes. Schuster has clear ideas about the measures he considers necessary: ​​In addition to a better approach to education, he also sees holding discussions about Judaism and the Shoah as essential. In his eyes, humor becomes a weapon against anti-Semitism.

Schuster is optimistic about the future: On the occasion of the Central Council's 75th anniversary, he looks back on important milestones of the organization, such as the commitment to Jewish life in the 1970s. A new, independent rabbinical seminary is being planned with the Nathan Peter Levinson Foundation after allegations were made against the head of the Abraham Geiger College. Schuster and his team would also like to see a possible merger of the Geiger College with the new seminar.

There is still a long way to go, but tackling anti-Semitism in the media and society remains on the agenda. Anti-Semitism can no longer be pushed under the guise of freedom of expression and it is up to all of us to advocate for a respectful and empathetic society.