Corona Protests Linked to Rise in Anti-Semitic Incidents, Research Reveals
The American Jewish Committee Berlin Ramer Institute, in collaboration with the Federal Association for Research and Information on Antisemitism (RIAS), has found a resurgence of antisemitic conspiracy theories since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly within anti-lockdown protests.
According to a study conducted by RIAS, nearly 60% of these incidents occurred at assemblies and demonstrations. The study, which was reported on by "Die Welt am Sonntag" ahead of its release, reveals that these conspiracy narratives often allege Jewish or Israeli involvement in secret plots related to the pandemic or government control measures.
At anti-lockdown and anti-vaccine protests, conspiracies have included claims that the pandemic is a ploy orchestrated by Jews or Israel for population control or global domination. These theories often invoke figures like Bill Gates or intelligence agencies like Mossad without evidence.
These antisemitic narratives are part of broader misinformation ecosystems that also include QAnon-related conspiracies and accusations leveraged in social and political contexts.
While misinformation about the pandemic's origin and handling has been widespread globally, the intersection with antisemitism at protests underscores an ongoing challenge. Daniel Poensgen of RIAS stated that we are dealing with a conspiracy-ideological and far-right spectrum that will not simply disappear with the end of the pandemic.
Between March 17, 2020, and March 17, 2021, a total of 561 antisemitic incidents with a connection to the coronavirus pandemic were reported. These incidents fuel discrimination and social unrest, complicating public health efforts and fostering intolerance.
In conclusion, antisemitic conspiracy theories connected to the pandemic continue to circulate actively, particularly at anti-lockdown protests. These theories maintain dangerous stereotypes and false accusations against Jewish individuals and communities, underscoring the need for ongoing vigilance and education to combat this disturbing trend.
Other examples of such conspiracies can be found in the realm of general-news and crime-and-justice, where they are often conflated with QAnon-related narratives. The perpetrators of these antisemitic narratives seek to use these platforms to further their agendas, disregarding the negative impact on Jewish individuals and communities.
