Europe remembers Kristallnacht, but are its leaders failing today's Jews? - analysis
European leaders marked Kristallnacht with pledges to fight antisemitism, but Jewish communities in Germany, the Netherlands, and Norway continue to face threats and insecurity.
On November 9, European leaders invoked the memory of Kristallnacht to denounce antisemitism and recommit to the principle of "Never Again." German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed historical accountability, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier noted attacks on Jews, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten called on Jews to remain, and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre cautioned against escalating international disputes. However, these assurances fail to address the lived experience of European Jews.
Jetten argued Kristallnacht's antisemitic violence is not an isolated historical event, drawing parallels to October 7. He warned that rising social divisions could reignite anti-Jewish sentiment and declared any threats or violence against synagogues, schools or restaurants unwarranted. Despite promising security measures, antisemitic incidents in the Netherlands dropped slightly in 2025, but disproportionately affected Jews who constitute less than 0.3% of the population but 26% of specific discrimination cases. Dutch Jews feel increasingly isolated, despite assurances from Jetten to stay.
Norway's Prime Minister Støre echoed Jetten's sentiments while cautioning that antisemitism is rising. He highlighted the dangers of online harassment of Jewish children and recalled that "even without crystal breaking, there are windows in homes" where antisemitism can occur. Despite warning of increasing antisemitism, Norwegian Jews have felt their concerns repeatedly disregarded. Norwegian actions against Israeli trade and investments have also drawn skepticism from the Jewish community.
In contrast, Germany's Chancellor Merz has opposed broader sanctions against Israel and maintained strong ties with Israel. However, antisemitism remains high, with 8,725 incidents recorded in 2025. While Germany has taken steps to pressure Israel on settlement activities, restrictions on arms exports and support for targeted settlement measures have led to tensions within German academia and society.
The government's rhetoric and policies may inadvertently link Israel and Judaism, creating a hostile environment for European Jews.
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