A recent study conducted in Lithuania highlights public perceptions regarding antisemitism, indicating that over half of the respondents believe that the level of antisemitism in the country has remained unchanged over the past five years. However, 14% of participants acknowledged an increase in antisemitism, while 18% recorded a decline. Birutė Sabatauskaitė, the Equal Opportunities Ombudsperson, emphasized that the increase in recognition of antisemitism reflects the disturbing rise of antisemitic rhetoric in the political arena, which can have deleterious effects on the Jewish community in Lithuania.

The survey further elucidates specific concerns expressed by respondents regarding antisemitic actions and sentiments in Lithuania. Notably, a considerable 43% of participants identified the desecration of Jewish cemeteries and the destruction of Jewish buildings and institutions as pressing issues. Additionally, antisemitic graffiti and online manifestations, particularly on social media platforms, were viewed as significant problems by a substantial portion of the population, with 36% highlighting the rising antisemitism in digital spaces.

Interestingly, the survey showed that only 28% of respondents believe that antisemitism is a problem in schools and universities, suggesting potential gaps in awareness or perception about the presence of such issues within educational institutions. This disparity might reflect the broader challenges of addressing antisemitism in various social settings, pointing to the need for enhanced education and awareness programs focused on combating hate and fostering inclusion within Lithuanian society.