A recent survey indicates that a substantial portion of Lithuania's population perceives anti-Semitism as a significant issue, with many noting a lack of change or an increase in its prevalence over recent years.
A recent survey conducted in Lithuania has revealed that a significant portion of its citizens, specifically one-third, perceives anti-Semitism as a problem in the country. While over half of the respondents believe that the level of anti-Semitism has remained unchanged over the past five years, a noteworthy 14% have observed an increase in anti-Semitic sentiments, while 18% feel that the problem has decreased. This indicates a divided perception among the population regarding the trends of anti-Semitism in recent years.
Birutė Sabatauskaitė, the Equal Opportunities Ombudsman, has expressed concern over the rising visibility of anti-Semitic statements in the political sphere. She emphasizes that such rhetoric, especially from public figures and politicians, has a profound impact on societal attitudes and can lead to tangible actions against the Jewish community. This assertion underscores the dangerous potential of political discourse to fuel discrimination and violence, resulting in increased apprehension for the Jewish population in Lithuania.
Moreover, the survey highlights specific concerns among the populace regarding various manifestations of anti-Semitism. It found that 43% of respondents were troubled by the desecration of Jewish cemeteries, with the same percentage expressing alarm over anti-Semitic graffiti and vandalism of Jewish properties. Additionally, 36% of those surveyed pointed to the prevalence of anti-Semitism online, particularly through social networks. These findings reflect a growing awareness of not only the existence of anti-Semitic attitudes but also their implications for the safety and well-being of the Jewish community in Lithuania.
