**Cyprus Tops EU Ranking for Antisemitic Attitudes, According to ADL Survey**
Cyprus has emerged as the European Union country with the highest level of antisemitic attitudes, according to the latest findings from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Global 100 survey. Released on Monday, the survey indicates that 58 percent of respondents in Cyprus exhibit elevated levels of anti-Jewish stereotypes, significantly surpassing other EU nations included in the study.
The survey results place Greece in second place, with 50 percent of respondents reporting similar elevated attitudes. Belgium follows with 30 percent, while the average antisemitic attitude level across Western Europe is notably lower at 17 percent.
The ADL Global 100 survey measures the prevalence of antisemitic stereotypes rather than actual antisemitic crimes or the likelihood of individuals committing such offenses. Respondents were assessed based on their agreement with 11 specific statements regarding Jewish people. Individuals were classified as having elevated antisemitic attitudes if they considered at least six of these statements to be probably or definitely true.
The statements included assertions that Jews have excessive influence over politics, finance, and the media, that they are responsible for most of the world’s wars, and that they possess disproportionate power in business. The survey also explored attitudes towards Israel and various issues concerning Jewish communities.
The ADL's comprehensive study involved over 58,000 adults from 103 countries and territories, representing 94 percent of the global adult population. The findings revealed that globally, 46 percent of respondents hold elevated levels of antisemitic attitudes, marking the highest level recorded since the Global 100 initiative began in 2014.
Notably, the survey indicated a generational divide in antisemitic attitudes, with younger respondents showing higher levels of prejudice. Fifty percent of individuals under the age of 35 met the threshold for elevated antisemitic attitudes, compared to 37 percent of those over 50.
Jonathan Greenblatt, the chief executive of the Anti-Defamation League, emphasized the significance of these findings, stating that “negative attitudes towards Jews are an important pillar” in understanding antisemitism. He called for increased government action, educational initiatives, and measures to combat hate and discrimination.
The results of the ADL survey highlight a pressing issue within Cyprus and across Europe, raising concerns among community leaders and policymakers about the implications of such attitudes on social cohesion and the well-being of Jewish communities. The findings may prompt discussions on the need for enhanced educational programs aimed at fostering tolerance and understanding among diverse populations.
As the ADL continues its mission to combat antisemitism and other forms of hate, the organization stresses the importance of addressing these attitudes through proactive measures. The survey serves as a crucial tool for understanding the landscape of antisemitism and guiding efforts to promote inclusivity and respect for all communities.