The FRA reports annually on antisemitism based on existing governmental and non-governmental data and information. These reports have shown that Jewish people in the EU continue to be affected by manifestations of antisemitism. When it occurs, individuals may find themselves discriminated against or harassed - for example at work, school or when using various services. They may also become victims of hate crime. This affects not only victims, but also their families and communities in the form of anxiety, insecurity and fear. Jewish people may also be affected by antisemitic hate speech.

The existing data in EU Member States on the nature, extent and, in particular, the effects of antisemitism on Jewish people are patchy and not comparable, as the FRA has highlighted over the years in its annual reports on antisemitism. European institutions and EU Member States need more data to draw a more comprehensive picture of the situation in order to formulate informed policy and legal responses to combat antisemitism. To address this need, in 2012 the FRA will carry out a survey among Jewish populations in selected EU Member States. The survey will focus on Jewish people's experiences and perceptions of antisemitism.