Spanish Jewish Community Reports 14.51% Rise in Antisemitism Incidents in 2025

The Federation of Jewish Communities of Spain (FCJE) presented its annual report on antisemitism for 2025 to the Spanish Senate, revealing a 14.51% increase in reported incidents compared to 2024. The report, compiled by the Spanish Observatory on Antisemitism—a joint initiative of the FCJE and the Movement against Intolerance (MCI)—documents a rise in hostility across public, institutional, educational, and sports domains. The report attributes much of this escalation to the ongoing conflict involving Israel, which has fueled tensions within Jewish communities and among sympathetic citizens.

The report notes that antisemitic incidents peaked during the anniversary of October 7, as well as in September and July. It also highlights the challenge of underreporting, with many victims citing fear of retaliation, distrust in authorities, or the emotional burden of recounting their experiences. The FCJE president, David Obadía, described a dangerous resurgence of antisemitism in Spain since October 7, 2023, emphasizing the daily reality faced by Spanish Jews.

Among the most notable institutional responses was Spain’s state-owned public broadcaster, RTVE, which chose not to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2025 due to Israel’s inclusion. The report also details active pressure campaigns urging other European public broadcasters to exclude Israel or withdraw collectively from the event. These actions reflect broader institutional and cultural tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The report includes cases of graffiti, property damage, protests, and hate speech on social media, underscoring the diverse forms antisemitism takes in modern society. It concludes that the normalization of antisemitic discourses and behaviors demands a sustained, coordinated response. The findings were formally shared during an event at the Spanish Senate, attended by political leaders and community representatives.

Senate President Pedro Rollán, a center-right figure, pledged to continue the fight against antisemitism as a major societal challenge. The event also featured the presence of Acting Ambassador Dana Erlich, highlighting the diplomatic dimension of addressing antisemitism. The gathering provided a platform for discussing the past year’s data and the evolving landscape of antisemitism in Spain as it moves into 2026.

The report serves as a call to action, urging collective responsibility and long-term commitment to combating antisemitism. It reflects the growing concern among Jewish communities and their allies about the normalization of hostile attitudes and the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable groups. As the report underscores, the fight against antisemitism is not only a matter of justice but also a moral imperative rooted in the principles of mercy and neighbor-love. Micah 6:8 reminds us that what God requires is to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.

Source: Read the original report