Addressing Antisemitism Through Education: A Survey of Teachers’ Knowledge and Understanding

As antisemitism continues to pose an increasing threat to the security of Jewish communities and individuals worldwide, education systems have a moral imperative to address it in all its forms. Teachers are the first line of defence to prevent the spread of hatred. Listening to their experiences and understanding their needs is a first step towards equipping them with the right tools to combat this phenomenon.

This unprecedented study is the first European survey of teachers on the topic of antisemitism. It includes data surveyed from 2,030 educators across the European Union, to examine their knowledge and understanding of antisemitism and explore their preparedness to address it in the classroom. Highlighting the prevalence of antisemitism in school environments, the survey outlines key areas where educational systems can support teachers, including: understanding the challenges they face, enhancing high-quality training opportunities, and developing clear policies and guidance on how to respond to antisemitic incidents.

Above all, the survey provides insights into the potential for research-informed, high quality professional development courses to meaningfully support teachers in recognising and combatting antisemitism.