A recent report released by the Institute of Jewish Policy Research (JPR) sheds light on Jewish relationships globally, highlighting significant differences in intermarriage rates. The study
conducted by Dr. Daniel Staetsky, director of JPR's European Jewish demography unit, reveals that 22% of UK community members marry non-Jews, making it the third-lowest intermarriage rate outside Israel. In contrast, across the Atlantic, American Jews have a much higher intermarriage rate of 45%.
Israel stands out with almost no intermarriage, at only 5% among Israeli Jews. However, Europe presents a different scenario, with nearly 50% of European Jews marrying non-Jews. Belgian Jews were found to have the lowest rate of intermarriage, with only 14% choosing to marry outside their faith. On the other hand, Poland, where the Jewish population is around 15,000, sees over three-quarters of Jews marrying non-Jews.
The report highlights that Israel's lower intermarriage rates can be attributed to a larger Jewish population, making it easier to find a Jewish partner. However, Staetsky emphasizes that intermarriage is not the "existential threat" it is sometimes perceived to be, particularly when compared to the main issue of low fertility rates.
In the United States, the prevalence of intermarriage has been somewhat offset by the growing Charedi and Orthodox populations. Still, this trend raises questions about defining Jewish identity, especially concerning the status of children born to Jewish mothers and non-Jewish fathers. Staetsky explains that the data shows children of intermarried couples are less likely to identify as Jews compared to those from in-married unions.
JPR director Dr. Jonathan Boyd acknowledges that intermarriage has been a concern for community leaders. However, he points out that fertility rates play a crucial role in shaping Jewish demographics. The report also notes that intermarriage rates are higher among secular Jews, with around 25% of Jewish partners of Reform Jews being Jews by conversion.
In conclusion, the report suggests that the issue of intermarriage, while significant, should not overshadow concerns about Jewish fertility levels, which have a more substantial impact on the future of Jewish demographics. Photo by Danny Robinson, Wikimedia commons.