A Shift in Perspective: Germans' View of Israel Grows More Critical, According to Bertelsmann Survey
Growing Negativity Towards Israel by Germans
Hey there! Today's topic is all about the changing views of Israel among Germans, as reported by the Bertelsmann Foundation in a recent survey.
Things took a turn compared to the last survey conducted in 2021. Back then, a total of 46% of Germans held a positive opinion of Israel, which has now dropped to 36%. Unfortunately, the negative opinion has also increased to 38%. In contrast, 60% of Israelis continue to view Germany and its government favorably[1][3].
Now, let's tackle the elephant in the room—antisemitism. According to the Bertelsmann Foundation, instances of antisemitic attitudes have reached new heights, particularly amongst younger people. Specifically, 27% of the surveyed Germans expressed beliefs about a disproportionate level of Jewish influence[1][3]. Moreover, there's been a concerning increase in Israel-related antisemitism, with 29% of respondents stating that Israel's policies make Jews less sympathetic toward them. This view, surprisingly, has gained ground among those under 40, with support rising from 14% to 28%[1][3].
Stephan Vopel, an Israel expert at the Bertelsmann Foundation, voiced his concerns, stating, "Antisemitism is not a rare occurrence in Germany; it can be found in various social circles and political camps."
The shadow of Germany's past—namely, the Holocaust—still looms over the current narrative between Germans and Israelis 80 years after the war. However, it seems more Israelis (62%) believe it's essential to move beyond those dark times than their German counterparts (32%)[1][3].
Here's a little background on the Bertelsmann Foundation. This organization often focuses on issues related to social cohesion, democracy, and broader societal matters[2][3]. But when it comes to antisemitism, the available search results do not offer specific details from the foundation's surveys.
All right, that's all for today's rundown on the growing criticism of Israel among Germans as reported by the Bertelsmann Foundation. It's an unsettling trend, but we can always work towards improving understanding and relationship-building. Keep that dialogue open!
References:1. ntv.de2. Bertelsmann Foundation3. dpa
The Bertelsmann Foundation's recent survey reveals a shift in the German community's opinion towards Israel, with the positive view dropping from 46% to 36%, while negative opinions rise to 38%.
In contrast, 60% of Israelis continue to view Germany and its government favorably, but instances of antisemitic attitudes among Germans have increased, particularly among younger people, with 27% expressing beliefs about a disproportionate level of Jewish influence.
The divergence in political views is further highlighted by the increase in Israel-related antisemitism, with 29% of respondents stating that Israel's policies make Jews less sympathetic towards them, a number that has risen significantly among those under 40.
The Bertelsmann Foundation, an organization focused on social cohesion, democracy, and societal matters, offers insights on this issue but does not provide specific details about its surveys regarding antisemitism in their search results.
