Antisemitism 'Become Normalised' on UK University Campuses, Survey Finds
A shocking report from the Union of Jewish Students (UJS) has revealed that antisemitism has 'become normalised' on campuses across the United Kingdom. The findings, based on a poll of 1,000 students from diverse faith backgrounds and none, paint a troubling picture of discrimination and social exclusion faced by Jewish students.
Widespread Witnessing of Antisemitic Behaviour
According to the UJS survey, nearly a quarter (23%) of respondents have observed behaviour specifically targeting Jewish students due to their religion or ethnicity. Additionally, almost half (47%) have witnessed justifications for the 7 October attacks by Hamas, while half (49%) reported hearing slogans or chants glorifying Hamas, Hezbollah, or other proscribed groups. The disruption of learning by protests was noted by 65% of students.
Social Ostracisation and Apathy
The report, titled Time for Change, highlights increased social ostracisation, with one in five students stating they would be reluctant or refuse to houseshare with a Jewish peer. Disturbing examples include a flat of non-Jewish students posting on social media about having 'only one rule – no Zios in the flat'. Furthermore, one in four (26%) know of or have experienced friendships with Jewish students becoming strained or distant.
Testimonies from Jewish students describe being chased home, threatened, verbally abused, and physically attacked. The report also flags an 'apathy' towards antisemitism, with 25% of polled students expressing little to no concern about whether Jewish students can be open about their identity on campus.
Inadequate Response and Calls for Action
Of those who witnessed antisemitism, only 20% challenged it directly, 22% reported it to students' unions, and 23% to universities. Karen Newman, vice-president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, called the report 'sickening reading', emphasising that Jewish students should not fear discrimination from peers.
In a foreword, Labour peer Luciana Berger noted that current experiences echo her own from two decades ago, raising concerns for future generations. Author Daniel Finkelstein criticised university administrations for failing to address such bullying.
Regulatory and Governmental Measures
Universities UK (UUK) stated they are working with leaders and Jewish organisations to tackle antisemitism. Recently, the government announced increased support, including a campus cohesion charter to promote respect. The Office for Students warned it will take action against institutions failing to protect students from harassment, with powers to sanction or deregister non-compliant universities.
The UJS survey, conducted by JL Partners, sampled 1,000 students from 170 institutions, weighted to reflect the UK student demographic, underscoring the urgency for systemic change in higher education.
