Jewish Museums in Europe Face Rising Threats Since October 7

Jewish museums across Europe are experiencing increased threats, vandalism, and declining visitor numbers since October 7, 2023, according to a survey by the Association of European Jewish Museums. Museum directors attribute this to the false assumption that their institutions are linked to Israel. Mirjam Wenzel, chair of the association and director of the Jewish Museum Frankfurt, states: 'We are attacked as Israeli institutions and identified with the State of Israel.' While some museums avoid addressing Middle East politics, others host debate formats. Regional differences exist: visitor numbers remain stable or have risen in Paris and Prague, but have fallen in Amsterdam, Brussels, and Copenhagen. Despite hostility, museums are committed to their educational mission. Barbara Cuglietta, director of the Jewish Museum of Belgium, declares: 'We will not be silenced. We will not be canceled.'