CRIF's 39th Annual Dinner Addresses Escalating Anti-Semitism in France
The CRIF dinner highlights rising anti-Semitism and community concerns in France.
Key Points
- • CRIF held its 39th dinner in Paris with political leaders present.
- • 1,570 anti-Semitic incidents reported in 2024, 280 in early 2025.
- • Yonathan Arfi emphasized dialogue with authorities to tackle anti-Semitism.
- • Concerns about political narratives increasing anti-Semitic sentiments.
On July 3, 2025, the Conseil représentatif des institutions juives de France (CRIF) held its 39th annual dinner in Paris, marked by concerns surrounding the rising tide of anti-Semitic incidents within the country. Attended by prominent political figures, including Prime Minister François Bayrou and various ministers, the event underscored a community grappling with escalating fears following a significant uptick in recorded anti-Semitic acts.
In 2024 alone, France reported 1,570 anti-Semitic incidents, with 280 occurring in the first quarter of 2025, highlighting an urgent need for dialogue and action against this societal plague. Yonathan Arfi, the newly re-elected president of the CRIF, emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust dialogue with the government to tackle anti-Semitism comprehensively. He stated, "We must engage in demanding dialogue with the authorities to confront all manifestations of anti-Semitism."
The context of this year’s dinner is particularly poignant, as the Jewish community has voiced increasing concerns following the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which prompted Israel to escalate military operations in Gaza. There’s a growing sentiment in the community regarding political narratives that may embolden anti-Semitic attitudes, particularly surrounding the political movements of La France insoumise and its leader, Jean-Luc Mélenchon. Some Jews have expressed apprehension that his pro-Palestinian stance may perpetuate anti-Semitic sentiments.
To address these rising tensions, the Minister of the Interior has pledged to enhance security measures, including increasing patrols around places of worship and Jewish institutions, in a bid to protect vulnerable communities and reassure citizens amidst these troubling times. The dinner has provided a vital platform for these discussions, allowing leaders to unify against hate and reinforce their commitment to fighting anti-Semitism in France.
As the CRIF continues to advocate for a safe and inclusive society, the implications of political polarities and social unrest remain a focal point for the Jewish community and its allies moving forward.