Antisemitic Attitudes Rise in Sweden Amid Latest Surveys

Recent reports based on surveys conducted in 2020 and 2025 reveal a significant increase in antisemitic attitudes among the Swedish population. Only 41% of respondents in 2025 believe it is acceptable to have a Jewish Prime Minister, marking a 9 percentage point drop from 50% in 2020. This decline reflects a growing tolerance of antisemitic views in society.

The studies indicate antisemitism is widespread across all demographics but is particularly more pronounced among older individuals and certain political or religious groups. Henrik Bachner, the report's author, emphasized the seriousness of these trends and noted the multifaceted causes behind them.

Key factors possibly driving the rise include the increased tensions and antisemitism following the October 7, 2023 attack on Israelis and the subsequent Gaza conflict. Additionally, social media plays a significant role in spreading and amplifying antisemitic sentiments. The 2025 survey also revealed that 10% of participants in Sweden endorse right-wing conspiracy theories, such as the notion of a 'population replacement' occurring within the country.

The reports classify antisemitism into three categories: social distancing from Jews, traditional prejudices including Holocaust-related biases, and attitudes towards Israel. Methodologically, the 2020 survey involved 3,507 individuals aged 18 to 79, conducted through Novus Sverigepanel, while the more extensive 2025 survey by the Swedish National Statistics Agency surveyed 30,259 people aged 18 to 74.

This worrying rise in antisemitic attitudes underscores the need for continued monitoring and targeted actions to counter hate and prejudice in Swedish society.