Concern among Jews in Sweden increases after Hamas attacks on civilians in Israel.
Several Jewish representatives testify to fears of increasing anti-Semitism.
– I think many Jews are very worried that this could worsen the situation in Malmö as a result of the war, says Fredrik Sieradzki, spokesperson for the Jewish congregation in Malmö.
After Hamas’s attack on Israel, several European countries have increased surveillance of synagogues and other Jewish institutions.
In Malmö, the Jewish congregation is used to operating under a threat and now several of the city’s Jews are experiencing a fear that the war between Israel and Hamas will increase anti-Semitism.
Mira Kelber, chairman of Judisk Ungdom Malmö, says that she felt apprehensive about appearing for an interview, but that she has now decided not to let the fear silence her.
– I see, hear and feel myself that the fear has grown. You feel afraid of what could happen here. The war affects Jews here, in Sweden and throughout the world. Fear risks taking over and winning.
Development risks being broken
Malmö has long been marked by anti-Semitism, but Mira Kelber says that she has recently seen a positive change – a development that is now at risk of being broken, she believes.
– The danger is if we end up where you don’t dare to wear Stars of David or say you are Jewish or if people avoid Malmö because of their Jewish identity.
At the same time, pro-Palestinian demonstrations have been held in several places in the country where flags were celebrated and waved. Now the Jewish Youth Association wants to see measures against that type of celebration.
– We have to take this seriously. There must be zero tolerance for glorification of terrorist organizations such as Hamas and abuses of human rights and war crimes in a democratic country such as Sweden. There must be consequences and prohibitions, says Hanna Nir, president of the Jewish Youth Association.
Activities are cancelled
In Stockholm, Jewish preschools have had to cancel certain outdoor activities for safety reasons. And security is now being tightened at several of the country’s synagogues.
For Mira Kelber in Malmö, the future in the city feels uncertain.
– It’s probably that you don’t know what will happen, that you’re afraid that something will happen here. That’s the last thing I want. I had wanted to raise my Jewish children here.