The Controversy Over the Term “Pogrom” in Amsterdam and Its Implications

The implications of using the term "pogrom" in relation to recent attacks in Amsterdam raise concerns about antisemitism and anti-Muslim rhetoric, as reactions from leaders reflect broader historical and cultural sensitivities.

In recent days, tensions in Amsterdam have surged following remarks made by Mayor Femke Halsema regarding the term "pogrom," which she expressed regret for using in connection with the violent events that unfolded on November 7 during a soccer game that targeted Israeli individuals. Halsema described her concerns about how the term is being appropriated and politicized, labeling it "propaganda" since the attacks occurred.

Gideon Saar, Israel’s foreign minister, responded sharply, deeming Halsema’s sentiments as "utterly unacceptable" and reinforcing the appropriateness of the term "pogrom" to describe the incidents. The term historically refers to collective violence against Jews, specifically evoking memories of organized riots primarily in Eastern Europe from the late 19th century until the mid-20th century. Its application in contemporary contexts can stir up profound emotions owing to its long-standing association with antisemitism.

This ongoing dialogue reflects heightened sensitivity towards antisemitism, particularly following the devastating Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, where over a thousand Israelis were killed, and many more were abducted. Figures within the international Jewish community have echoed Saar's sentiment, suggesting that the term "pogrom" should be employed to condemn anti-Jewish violence unequivocally.

In contrast, Halsema’s reluctance to use the term signals broader societal concerns about the implications of such language, especially in the context of rising right-wing sentiment. Geert Wilders, a prominent figure in the far-right political landscape in the Netherlands, has openly used the word "pogrom" and has a history of making inflammatory statements against Muslim immigrants—further complicating the discourse around this term.

As the debate unfolds, it highlights the precarious balance between acknowledging historical grievances associated with Jewish persecution and addressing the contemporary issues surrounding Islamophobia and anti-Muslim sentiment. The term’s usage is embroiled in a larger narrative that reflects both the fragility of collective memory and the fierce political landscapes that shape how communities engage with concepts of violence and identity today.