SOCIETY – A survey tells the story of young Italian Jews

What are the views of young Italian Jews on their identity, their relationship with the Jewish community and their relationship with civil society? These are the questions addressed in the survey “Due ebrei, tre opinion”i (Two Jews, Three Opinions) (Giuntina), edited by Carlotta Jarach and Giulio Piperno.
The study is structured in two parts. First, it examines the theoretical aspects of Jewish identity, including a comparison with Israel and an overview of the history of the UGEI. The second part presents the results of an empirical survey conducted between 2021 and 2024 with 200 people aged 18–35. This survey analysed young people’s views on identity, religiosity, their relationship with Israel, marriage and social media. Piperno writes at the beginning of the book that, compared to the past, “there is a strong heterogeneity, linked in particular to the level of religious observance, but often also to the socio-cultural background and community of origin”.
The answers to the question ‘What aspect of Judaism is most important to you?’ are heterogeneous, for example. For 43% of survey participants, the main element of identity is Jewish culture. Family and religious aspects received 23% and 22% of the responses, respectively. A minority of respondents reported emotional aspects (7%), while 4% indicated a mix of the alternatives. Geographical differences also emerge: in Milan, the religious element is the predominant choice (34%), whereas in Rome and small communities, it is the cultural element (44% and 60%, respectively). These results reveal a dynamic group of under-35s who are attached to traditions but open to discussion, critical of Jewish institutions, well integrated into their respective countries but willing to move abroad for better opportunities, and particularly focused on Israel.
Following 7 October 2023, fears of anti-Semitism increased, prompting some to alter their habits and seek greater support within Jewish communities.