Full Breakdown
Rising Antisemitism and Student Protests in Europe and the U.S.
11/12/2025, 10:37:09 PM
Jewish Students Protest Antisemitism at Technische Universität Berlin
In a significant escalation of tensions surrounding antisemitism on university campuses, Jewish students at Technische Universität Berlin have occupied the student assembly building to protest what they describe as pervasive antisemitic sentiments and the election of student council members affiliated with groups that have glorified Hamas. This action follows two years of pro-Palestinian protests at the university, where activists have barricaded themselves in various buildings. The student group "Occupy Against Antisemitism" is demanding increased actions against antisemitism, the removal of support for antisemitic groups, and a new appointment to combat antisemitism at the university.
The students argue that the recent student council elections were conducted in a "non-democratic climate," where their concerns were dismissed and ridiculed. They emphasize the need for representation of Jewish and Israeli students within the council. The protests reflect a broader trend of rising antisemitism in academic environments, exacerbated by recent geopolitical events.
Context of Antisemitism in Austria
In Austria, a similar atmosphere of dissent has emerged, as approximately 200 protesters rallied against an event honoring Franz Dinghofer, a historical figure known for his antisemitic views and affiliation with the Nazi party. The event, hosted by Walter Rosenkranz, the far-right parliamentary speaker from the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), has drawn widespread condemnation from the Jewish community and political opposition. Critics, including Lia Guttmann of the Austrian Union of Jewish Students, labeled the event a "counter-symposium" against "historical amnesia," highlighting the dangers of honoring figures with such a controversial past.
The protests coincided with the anniversary of the Kristallnacht pogrom, underscoring the sensitivity surrounding antisemitism in Austria. The FPÖ has faced accusations of antisemitism in the past, which it denies, framing the criticism as a smear campaign.
Antisemitism on U.S. College Campuses
A national survey conducted by Schoen Cooperman Research for the Israel on Campus Coalition (ICC) reveals a troubling rise in antisemitism on U.S. college campuses. The poll indicates that 54% of students believe antisemitism has increased since the Israel-Hamas conflict escalated, with a significant portion expressing negative views toward Israel. The survey highlights a complex relationship between support for pro-Palestinian protests and rising antisemitism, as many students acknowledge that these demonstrations have contributed to a hostile environment for Jewish students.
Jewish students in New York City have expressed fears regarding the implications of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani's victory, citing his past comments and affiliations as concerning. Students from institutions like Columbia University and Barnard College have voiced their anxiety about their safety and representation in light of Mamdani's policies and rhetoric.
Official Statements and Responses
In response to the protests at Technische Universität Berlin, the students involved have articulated their demands for greater representation and action against antisemitism. Meanwhile, Walter Rosenkranz defended the Dinghofer Symposium, suggesting that it is possible to recognize both the positive and negative aspects of historical figures.
Jacob Baime, CEO of the ICC, stated, “This data lays bare the daily reality for Jewish students... campuses have grown profoundly hostile to anyone who is Jewish or pro-Israel.”
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While the protests at Technische Universität Berlin and the events in Austria highlight a growing concern over antisemitism, there are discrepancies in the reported experiences of Jewish students across different campuses. Some students report feeling increasingly marginalized, while others emphasize the need for dialogue and representation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are students at TU Berlin who belong to the Jewish left, and raise criticism and awareness about antisemitism at the university,” — Occupy Against Antisemitism
- “Dinghofer was an antisemite and a Nazi party member during WWII,” — Lia Guttmann, Co-president of the Austrian Union of Jewish Students
- “This data lays bare the daily reality for Jewish students: more than half (54%) of college students now say antisemitism on campus has increased since the October 7 massacre, confirming that campuses have grown profoundly hostile to anyone who is Jewish or pro-Israel,” — Jacob Baime, CEO of ICC
These developments reflect a critical moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding antisemitism in educational institutions, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and action.
