Stark New Survey: 80% of French Jews Don't Feel Safe

A comprehensive 2026 report by the Jewish Agency, based on a survey by the international research firm Ipsos, lays out a troubling reality facing Jewish communities worldwide. The data show that nearly 80% of French Jews do not feel safe in their country. About half of all Jews in Europe said they experienced antisemitism in the past year. The situation is especially severe in Germany and Austria, where about 59% of respondents reported that they or their family members were affected by antisemitic incidents.

The survey, which included a sample of 1,428 respondents, found that fear also grips Israelis living abroad. Surprisingly, even though they encounter fewer direct incidents, they are the most hesitant to display Jewish symbols in public—about 70% prefer to keep their identity low-profile in public spaces. Israel's President Isaac Herzog, who was briefed on the report, responded to the findings and said it presents a "worrying picture of rising antisemitism and a blow to the sense of security among Jews in the Diaspora".

Alongside the stark data on a climate of persecution, the report also highlights a significant bright spot when it comes to community resilience. About 85% of Jews worldwide believe that the existence of the State of Israel is essential to the continued existence of the Jewish people. In addition, an overwhelming majority of respondents stressed that passing down Jewish heritage and identity to future generations is very important to them. Interestingly, younger respondents show a stronger connection to the community than older generations.