Poland and Belgium have ranked last in a recent report on the quality of Jewish life in the European Union.
Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
The survey, which was conducted by the London-based Institute for Jewish Policy Research over two years, examined the performance of European governments based on key requirements for Jewish life, such as religious freedom, security, culture, prosperity, and measures to battle antisemitism. It even analyzed nations' pro-Israel votes at the United Nations.
Belgium, which has ranked last on the list, has significantly reduced measures to protect Jewish areas in recent years, banned kosher slaughter, and has failed to appoint a coordinator to combat antisemitism. Brussels is also considering outlawing circumcision.
Italy and Hungary ranked highest on the list, followed by Britain, Austria, Holland, Sweden, Germany, Spain, and France.
Germany and Austria ranked highest in terms of government performance; Denmark in terms of security; The Netherlands regarding public attitudes toward Israel, however, overall, Italy and Hungary ranked best.
The report was presented at the European Jewish Conference, which hosts the Jewish leaders of the continent once a year, held in the Hungarian capital of Budapest.
The goal of the survey is not to shame any particular government, but to provide information on the quality of Jewish life in various European countries so that government and Jewish leaders learn of the practical steps needed to overcome the challenges that European Jews face today, Rabbi Menachem Margolin, chairman of the European Jewish Association, said.
And yet, the general feeling of safety and friendliness, "does not mean that the state is doing its best to ensure the development of the Jewish community. Belgium, for example, is a country where residents are generally satisfied, but if you delve into the details, you'll see that the country does the minimum for the preservation of Jewish life compared to other European countries," Margolin said.
Subscribe to Israel Hayom's daily newsletter and never miss our top stories!
