Anti-Semitism: Salzborn warns of alarming normalization in Berlin!

Anti-Semitism: Salzborn warns of alarming normalization in Berlin!

On October 8, 2025, Samuel Salzborn, the anti -Semitism representative of Berlin, warns of the normalization of anti -Semitism in the capital. Two years after the devastating Hamas massacre on October 7, 2021, he describes the persistent threat to Jewish life in Berlin. According to Salzborn, the situation is still alarming for many Jews because everyday hatred of Jews has become reality.

“Jewish life cannot just be lived like that,” emphasizes Salzborn, noting that Jewish people repeatedly experience insecurity, threats, offensive statements and physical attacks. In his eyes, anti-Semitism is becoming not only a social risk, but also a significant risk for democracy, as fundamental rights such as the inviolability of human dignity and religious freedom come under pressure.

Attacks and social relevance

Salzborn emphasizes that the violence that is committed in connection with propalestinic demonstrations not only endangers the security of Jewish citizens, but also questions the state order. The decline in freedom of the press is another worrying signal: journalists are becoming increasingly victims of verbal and physical attacks, which undermines freedom of reporting.

The anti-Semitism commissioner also criticizes society's “blaring silence” regarding these developments. Art and cultural institutions that take a stand against anti-Semitism and are repeatedly the target of boycotts are particularly affected. Salzborn notes that such hatred threatens not only artistic freedom, but also academic freedom, especially at universities. According to studies, Jewish students and teachers at German universities have experienced increased anti-Semitism since October 7, 2023.

Growing violence and public reaction

The Berlin Anti-Semitism Research and Information Center (RIAS) documented 2,521 anti-Semitic incidents last year, which means almost seven incidents per day. This is an alarming doubling of violence compared to last year. Salzborn demands that the public outcry against these incidents must be intensified in order to counter the ever-increasing discrimination against Jews.

Scientists at the University of the Arts (UDK) Berlin are working intensively on the topic of anti-Semitism. They examine historical roots and current manifestations, with the role of media and social networks playing a central role in the spread of anti-Semitic stereotypes. Findings from this research are crucial to better understanding and countering anti-Semitism.

The context of the Middle East conflict also has a direct impact on living together in Berlin, where a large number of Jews and Palestinians live. The Gaza conflict, which resulted in a war last year, has noticeably changed the social climate and the security policy situation. This also increases the social and political tensions.

Samuel Salzborn sees an urgent need to take action against discrimination and to raise public awareness of the issue. This is the only way to promote a shared coexistence in society in which Jews in Berlin can continue to move around safely and freely in the future.