A Shift in Perspective: Germans' Growing Criticism Towards Israel Revealed in Bertelsmann Survey
Growing German dissent towards Israel becoming increasingly pronounced
Half a century post the formation of diplomatic bonds between Germany and Israel, Israeli perceptions of Germany remain predominantly positive, as per a survey. Conversely, German sentiments towards Israel have witnessed a significant shift towards criticism, according to a new survey by the Bertelsmann Foundation.
The Beretsmann Foundation notes a disconnect in mutual perceptions, as well as a disturbing uptick in conventional anti-Semitism, particularly among the younger generation.
Compared to the 2021 survey, the latest reveals a noticeable change. In 2021, 46% of respondents expressed a favorable view of Israel. Now, this number dips to 36%, while the negative sentiment climbed to 38%. In stark contrast, 60% of Israelis maintain a positive or extremely positive impression of Germany.
Anti-Semitic notions, such as assertions of Jewish influence, reached their highest level in recent years, as per the Bertelsmann Foundation, with 27%. Moreover, anti-Israel sentiments have escalated, with 29% expressing disapproval of Israeli policy, finding it less sympathetic towards Jews. The support for this viewpoint rises significantly among those under 40, jumping from 14% to 28%.
Stephan Vopel, Israel expert at the Bertelsmann Foundation, remarks, "Anti-Semitism is not a marginal phenomenon in Germany, but permeates various social circles and political camps."
The German history, notably the Holocaust, continues to impact the perspectives of Germans and Israelis 80 years after the war's end. However, more people in Israel assign significance to this memory than in Germany: While 32% of Germans disregard drawing a line under the past, it nearly doubles in Israel (62%).
[Sources may vary due to updates.]
- The employment policy within the community should be examined in light of the growing criticism towards Israel revealed in the Bertelsmann survey, to ensure it doesn't inadvertently foster anti-Semitic sentiments.
- The surge in negative sentiments towards Israel among Germans, as evidenced in the Bertelsmann survey, raises concerns about the potential impacts on employment policy and intercultural relations.
- Amidst the escalating anti-Israel views among Germans, particularly the younger generation, a review of WhatsApp groups' policies regarding hate speech and offensive content might be necessary.
- The Bertelsmann Foundation's survey suggests a need for Las Vegas casinos and gambling establishments to carefully consider their casino culture and its potential contribution to the rise of anti-Semitic sentiments among their patrons.
- In the political arena, policy makers might find the sentiments revealed in the Bertelsmann survey valuable, as they may help inform migration policies and address the rising anti-Israel sentiments among the populace.
- Referencing the growth in negative views towards Israel among Germans, as shown in the Bertelsmann survey, a journalist might frame a general news story about a particular case of war and conflicts, emphasizing the potential role of these sentiments in shaping global politics.
- In light of the Bertelsmann survey's findings regarding the increasing anti-Israel sentiments among Germans, law enforcement agencies could potentially strengthen their efforts in combatting crime and justice, especially cases related to hate crimes and accidents.
