European Parliament President Urges Rooting Out Antisemitism as "Poison" Threatening Continental Values

Roberta Metsola warns of a rising "poison" of antisemitism in Europe, as Jewish leaders demand Special Protected Minority Status for security.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 15, 2026, 10:42 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Times of Israel

A Stark Warning From Brussels

Addressing a gathering of over 100 European Jewish leaders in Brussels, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola delivered a firm directive on the rising tide of hostility toward Jewish communities. Speaking at the European Jewish Association (EJA) Conference, Metsola characterized antisemitism not as a series of isolated incidents, but as a "poison" that threatens the fundamental pillars of European society. Her remarks underscored a growing urgency to address safety concerns that have become a daily reality for many across the continent.

The Reality of Targeted Hostility

Metsola highlighted a disturbing trend of specific attacks, citing instances of synagogues being vandalized, schools targeted, and even ambulances set on fire. She noted that these actions have created a climate where Jewish families are often afraid to openly display their identity in public spaces. By framing these events as an "assault on everything Europe stands for," the President signaled that the protection of Jewish life is inextricably linked to the preservation of European democratic values and internal security.

The Vision for a Secure Flourishing

The President’s address outlined a vision for a Europe where religious practice does not carry inherent physical risk. Metsola emphasized that the goal is a continent where wearing a kippah is not a gamble and where Jewish children do not require armed guards to attend school. She called for a societal shift that moves beyond mere tolerance, aiming instead for an environment where Jewish life can flourish openly and safely in every corner of the continent, free from the shadow of conspiracy theories and age-old tropes.