Sharp increase in online incidents: number of antisemitic incidents remains at an elevated level

The year 2025 was once again marked by a high number of antisemitic incidents in Switzerland. Online, the number of antisemitic incidents continued to rise by 37%, while in the real world, a drop of almost 20% was recorded. Overall, the level remains significantly higher than before 7 October 2023. The war in the Middle East again proved to be a key trigger for antisemitic incidents. The findings from the Antisemitism Report of the Swiss Federation of Jewish Communities SIG and the GRA Foundation Against Racism and Antisemitism do not show any lasting easing of the tense situation; instead, it has become entrenched.

The figures and categories for 2025

In the reporting year, 2,185 antisemitic incidents were registered online (2024: 1,596), which corresponds to an increase of 36.9%. Since 2024, the SIG has been using a new methodology for systematically recording antisemitic content. A comparison with figures from before 2024 is therefore not possible. With 1,445 cases, Telegram accounted for by far the largest proportion of online incidents (2024: 890). The comments sections of online newspapers accounted for the second highest number of incidents, at 380 (2024: 300). Antisemitic content was also found on all major social media platforms. In terms of content, antisemitic conspiracy theories dominated, accounting for 42% of online incidents (2024: 42%). In total, 39.3% were classified as general antisemitism, 12.4% as Israel-related antisemitism (2024: 16.7%), and 6.3% as Shoah denial or trivialisation (2024: 6%). At least 24% of online incidents were directly related to the war in the Middle East (2024: 28.3%).

In the real world, 177 antisemitic incidents were recorded (2024: 221; 2022: 57). While this figure was down on the previous year, it is still around three times higher than before 7 October 2023. Five physical assaults were reported (2024: 11; 2022: 1), 42 instances of verbal abuse (2024: 42; 2022: 16), 80 antisemitic comments (2024: 103; 2022: 6) and 28 cases of offensive graffiti (2024: 44; 2022: 9). The war in the Middle East remained the most important trigger, accounting for 37.3% of cases (2024: 44.8%).

The key concern: persistently high levels of antisemitic incidents

The war in the Middle East has acted as the dominant long-term trigger for antisemitic incidents in Switzerland since 7 October 2023. This influence remained formative in 2025. A return to the level seen prior to 7 October has not yet been discernible.

This entrenchment is particularly evident on online platforms, where the number of antisemitic incidents continued to increase. Overall, 24% of antisemitic posts and comments had a direct connection to the war in the Middle East; however, there are probably more that are indirectly related to it. The monthly evaluation clearly shows this correlation: time and again, there were significant spikes following relevant events, particularly in June 2025 in connection with the war between Israel and Iran. The impact is also evident in the real world, with 37.3% of cases directly linked to the Middle East conflict. In many cases, the motivation of the perpetrators is not known, so here too, the actual proportion is likely to be higher. Where classification was possible, the incidents can be attributed to different known milieus. These include right-wing extremists, left-wing extremists, Islamists, the conspiracy-theory and anti-state subculture, the radical pro-Palestinian camp where left-wing and Muslim milieus meet, and, finally, «mainstream society».

Overall, the findings still clearly show that antisemitism in Switzerland is not just a temporary crisis-related phenomenon. The ongoing impact of the war in the Middle East, the persistently elevated baseline level of antisemitism observable across all categories, and the lack of any signs of easing in the digital sphere continued to shape the situation in 2025. This combination of factors makes it clear that this is a structural problem that goes beyond individual events and requires long-term responses.

Antisemitism must not be accepted as ‘normal’ and ‘inevitable’

The persistently high number of antisemitic incidents is having an increasing impact on the sense of security and social participation of Jewish people in Switzerland. Since 7 October 2023, antisemitism is no longer an abstract concept for many, but rather a constant burden. Jewish people are avoiding wearing religious symbols in public or going to certain places and events. This indicates a gradual curtailment of Jewish life in the public arena. The increasing normalisation of antisemitic narratives is also worrying. Antisemitic comments and stereotyping are tolerated or downplayed in parts of society, especially in connection with the Middle East conflict. The GRA and the SIG warn against the acceptance of a certain amount of antisemitism as ‘normal’ or ‘inevitable’ by politicians and society. This would undermine the foundations of a democratic state. Such a development must be vigorously opposed.

Against this backdrop, the GRA and the SIG demand that the protection of Jewish life in Switzerland be guaranteed in the long term. The National Strategy Against Racism and Antisemitism adopted by the Federal Council is an important step, but the decisive factor will be the concrete action plan. This must be backed up by clear responsibilities, binding measures and sufficient financial and human resources. These include long-term safety measures, investment in prevention and awareness-raising work, particularly in the area of education, and greater commitment to monitoring. Effectively combating antisemitism is not a short-term task, but a lasting responsibility of the state and society.