Impact of Birthright Israel Trips on Jewish Identity Post-October 7 Attacks

A recent study conducted by Brandeis University, titled “A Summer of Uncertainty: Birthright Israel’s Impact on the Summer 2025 Cohort,” reveals significant changes in Jewish identity among young American Jews following the October 7 attacks by Hamas. The research surveyed 2,285 applicants for Birthright trips, comparing those who participated with those who did not. The findings indicate that participants experienced a notable increase in their connection to Jewish identity, while nonparticipants reported a decline.

Your Daily Phil: Study: Post-10/7 Birthright participants more engaged; their peers are losing tiesTimes of IsraelBrandeis University Study Finds Unprecedented Declines in Jewish Connection Among U.S. Jewish Young AdultsBirthright participants are far more engaged; their peers are losing ties to Judaism, study finds

The study highlights a stark contrast in the Jewish identity of participants versus nonparticipants. Among those who attended Birthright, connection to Israel rose by 60%, while it fell by 26% among nonparticipants. Additionally, the percentage of participants who considered being Jewish “extremely important” increased from 29% to 48% post-trip, whereas nonparticipants showed no change. The sense of responsibility toward other Jews and Israel also grew among participants, with strong agreement on these issues rising significantly.

Brandeis University Study Finds Unprecedented Declines in Jewish Connection Among U.S. Jewish Young AdultsBirthright participants are far more engaged; their peers are losing ties to Judaism, study findsYour Daily Phil: Study: Post-10/7 Birthright participants more engaged; their peers are losing tiesTimes of Israel

The demographic profile of Birthright participants has shifted notably since the October 7 attacks. In 2025, 42% identified as conservative, a significant increase from 20% in 2023. The percentage of participants who were Orthodox also rose dramatically, from 5% in 2023 to 22% in 2024 and 17% in 2025. Furthermore, the number of participants who attended Jewish day schools increased from 23% in 2023 to 40% in 2025.

Birthright participants are far more engaged; their peers are losing ties to Judaism, study finds

Gidi Mark, the international CEO of Birthright Israel, emphasized the program's role in countering declining Jewish engagement: “The cultural headwinds facing young Jews are real... But what this research makes unmistakably clear is that Birthright Israel moves participants in the opposite direction.” Elias Saratovsky, president of the Birthright Israel Foundation, warned of a potential loss of connection among younger generations if the community does not invest in initiatives like Birthright.

Times of IsraelBrandeis University Study Finds Unprecedented Declines in Jewish Connection Among U.S. Jewish Young AdultsYour Daily Phil: Study: Post-10/7 Birthright participants more engaged; their peers are losing tiesBirthright participants are far more engaged; their peers are losing ties to Judaism, study finds

Despite the positive outcomes for participants, the study also highlights a concerning trend among nonparticipants, particularly those who identify as politically liberal. Their connection to Israel decreased from 31% to 23%, indicating that opting out of the program may lead to a weakening of Jewish identity and connection to Israel.

Birthright participants are far more engaged; their peers are losing ties to Judaism, study finds

While the study presents a clear narrative of increased engagement among Birthright participants, it also raises questions about the long-term implications for those who do not participate. The report does not delve into the reasons behind the declining connection among nonparticipants, leaving a gap in understanding the broader context of Jewish identity in America.

Brandeis University Study Finds Unprecedented Declines in Jewish Connection Among U.S. Jewish Young Adults

The Brandeis University study underscores the transformative impact of Birthright Israel trips on young Jewish adults, particularly in the wake of significant geopolitical events. As the Jewish community navigates these challenges, the findings suggest that participation in such programs is crucial for fostering a strong sense of identity and connection to Israel among the younger generation.

Brandeis University Study Finds Unprecedented Declines in Jewish Connection Among U.S. Jewish Young AdultsTimes of IsraelYour Daily Phil: Study: Post-10/7 Birthright participants more engaged; their peers are losing tiesBirthright participants are far more engaged; their peers are losing ties to Judaism, study finds