British Jews report rising antisemitism and consider emigration
British Jews have reported a significant increase in antisemitic abuse, including threats and harassment, prompting many to contemplate leaving the United Kingdom.
Amanda, a 47-year-old volunteer and school governor in a London suburb, described being spat at, called a "baby killer," and receiving a death threat over the past two years because of her Jewish identity.
Amanda, who previously wore a Star of David pendant openly, now fears displaying Jewish symbols as it marks her as a target.
She told BBC Panorama that living openly as a Jewish person in the UK has become uncomfortable and unsafe.
In a WhatsApp group of about 20 Jewish friends, many of whom are descendants of refugees from the Nazis, conversations have shifted from everyday topics to discussions about emigration plans.
Amanda said that everyone she knows is considering leaving the UK, mainly moving to Israel, with some already in the process of relocating.
This trend is reflected in migration statistics from the Israeli government, which show that more British Jews moved to Israel in the past 12 months than in any year since 2000.
Although the numbers remain relatively small-742 out of an estimated 300,000 British Jews-this figure is double that of 2023, a year marked by the Hamas-led attacks on 7 October and subsequent Israeli military actions in Gaza.
A recent survey by the Institute for Jewish Policy Research, shared exclusively with BBC Panorama, indicates that antisemitism is influencing about one in five British Jews to consider leaving the country.
This growing fear is affecting daily life and the sense of security within the community.
Amanda identifies as Modern Orthodox, a branch of Judaism that balances adherence to tradition with engagement in the modern world.
Despite this, she and others in her community feel increasingly vulnerable and uncomfortable in their daily lives.
