The Rise of Antisemitism in France: Insights from Nora Bussigny's Undercover Investigation

Nora Bussigny, a French journalist, has published a book titled “Les Nouveaux Antisémites” (“The New Antisemites”), which details her undercover investigation into the pervasive antisemitism and anti-Zionism within various far-left organizations in France. Bussigny infiltrated these groups using a false identity, participating in demonstrations and discussions over the course of a year. Her findings suggest that a shared animosity towards Jews and Israel has become a unifying factor among disparate radical factions, including Islamists, feminists, and ecological activists.

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Bussigny’s investigation was catalyzed by the Hamas-led invasion of Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and a subsequent surge in global antisemitism. In her book, she explores how radical anti-Israel groups, such as Urgence Palestine and Samidoun—designated as a terrorist organization by multiple countries—receive political support and sometimes public funding in France. Her experiences reveal a troubling normalization of antisemitic rhetoric, often disguised as anti-Zionism.

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Despite not being Jewish, Bussigny has faced severe backlash since the book's release, including death threats and social media harassment. She has been labeled a traitor to the Palestinian cause and accused of complicity in genocide. Some bookstores in France have even boycotted her work. Nevertheless, “Les Nouveaux Antisémites” has garnered acclaim, becoming a bestseller and receiving the 2025 Prix Edgar Faure award for best political book. Bussigny has expressed gratitude for the support she has received, particularly from the Jewish community in France.

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Bussigny identifies Rima Hassan, a senior member of the left-wing La France Insoumise party, as a particularly dangerous figure in the current political landscape. Hassan's radical views resonate with younger voters, raising concerns about the potential electoral impact on future elections. Bussigny warns that the normalization of antisemitic discourse among young voters could lead to a more significant political shift in France.

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In her public engagements, Bussigny has condemned the rise of antisemitism, urging the French government to prioritize the fight against Jew-hate and racism. She has called for the establishment of a special judiciary office dedicated to prosecuting antisemitism. Her book serves not only as a report of her findings but also as a warning about the implications of unchecked antisemitism in society.

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While Bussigny has received support from various quarters, she has also faced criticism for her identity and perspective. Some argue that her non-Jewish background undermines her authority to speak on antisemitism. However, Bussigny contends that her experiences and insights are valuable in understanding the complexities of contemporary antisemitism in France.

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Bussigny concludes her book with a somber reflection on the future of Jews in France, expressing deep concern over the rising tide of antisemitism. She emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues, stating, “You can no longer say you didn’t know.” Her work highlights the critical need for awareness and action against the growing threat of antisemitism in French society.

Times of Israel