New Report Suggests Antisemitism Has Become Widespread in UK Society

A newly-published report has found that antisemitism has become deeply embedded and normalized across British society, calling for urgent measures to tackle the issue.

The report, published by the Board of Deputies of British Jews, is the result of six months of research commissioned in response to a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents following the Hamas attacks in Israel on October 7, 2023.

The Comission is co-chaired by the Government’s Independent Adviser on Antisemitism Lord Mann and former Secretary of State for Defence and Leader of the House of Commons Dame Penny Mordaunt.

Mordaunt said, “No person should face abuse or discrimination whilst going about their business, whether it is pursuing the career of their choice or accessing public services. We wanted to suggest some very practical things that can be dealt with swiftly and will dramatically improve people’s experiences.”

The investigation uncovered evidence that antisemitism is widespread within major national institutions, including the NHS, universities, and the arts sector. Many Jewish employees within the NHS reported that their complaints of abuse were routinely dismissed or not properly addressed.

According to official figures, antisemitic incidents increased by 204% by September 2024, marking the highest level ever recorded in the UK. The surge has coincided with weekly demonstrations in London protesting against Israel’s actions.

Political leaders have responded by welcoming the report and indicating they will examine its recommendations closely to improve policing, community safety, and institutional responses to antisemitic abuse.

The Board of Deputies of British Jews is “the voice of the British Jewish Community, the first port of call for the Government, the media and others seeking to understand Jewish community interests and concerns”.

Whether or not this makes the report biased is not up for debate here – let’s tackle the headlines.