NEW YORK (EJP)—Anti-Semitic attitudes have risen sharply in Mexico in the past three years amid challenges the country is facing with a faltering economy and growing pessimism about the country’s direction and future, according to a new poll commissioned by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL).
ADL’s Global 100 Index Survey in Mexico found anti-Semitic attitudes have increased by 11 points compared to a similar poll three years ago.
Today, a total of 35 percent of the adult population in Mexico – or approximately 31 million people — harbors anti-Semitic attitudes, up from 24 percent in a similar poll in 2014.
The most commonly held negative stereotype, that “Jews have too much power in the business world,” is held by 56 percent of the Mexican population, an increase from 40 percent in 2014.
Findings suggest that the economic downturn and political and social instability has people looking for scapegoats, with those who are most negative about the economy tending to be more anti-Semitic.
“While Mexico’s Jewish community is thriving and rarely experiences any anti-Semitism, underlying attitudes remain a concern, particularly related to some of the most classic anti-Jewish stereotypes,” said Jonathan A. Greenblatt, ADL CEO.
He said that the Mexican government takes the issue very seriously. ‘’At the highest levels, they have confirmed their ongoing commitment to combat anti-Semitism and all forms of hate and discrimination. They also continue to collaborate closely with Mexican Jewish leadership on a host of issues.”
The Jewish community is estimated at about 50,000 people, with most living in Mexico City.