Norway's Jews Conceal Their Identity to Access Medical Care Amid Rising Anti-Israel Sentiment

Date: March 28, 2025

By: Nissan Shtrauchler

In a troubling development for Norway's Jewish community, many members are opting to hide their identities when seeking medical care due to fears of discrimination and bias among some healthcare workers. This alarming trend, described as "deeply concerning" by Jewish leaders, has been likened to experiences not seen since World War II.

In a recently released letter to health authorities, significant voices within the Jewish community, including Marius Gaarder, chairman of the Jewish community in Oslo, and John Arne Moen from Trondheim, articulated their concerns. They noted a visible shift in attitudes among medical professionals following heightened anti-Israel sentiments that surged after events in October 2023. This letter expressed a collective anxiety regarding the comfort of Jewish individuals in medical settings, stating: "Community members fear they won't receive optimal care if they reveal they are Jewish."

Dr. Rolf Kirschner, a veteran Jewish physician with over four decades in Norway's public health system and a member of the Norwegian Medical Association, echoed these sentiments. He highlighted that many Jewish patients are reluctant to wear symbols of their faith, such as the Star of David, during medical appointments. They also fear that their names being called in waiting rooms may expose their identities, further contributing to their apprehension.

An unsettling pattern has emerged where Jewish patients encounter healthcare settings that showcase politically charged displays, including posters and pamphlets expressing solidarity with Palestinians. Dr. Kirschner stated that these situations have led to fears among Jewish patients, causing them to hesitate in raising complaints regarding their experiences due to concerns about potential backlash from healthcare staff.

While Dr. Kirschner supports the principle of freedom of expression, he believes that politics should not have a place in medical facilities. He, along with the community leaders, has urged health services and relevant organizations to implement measures ensuring that Jewish patients feel safe and secure while receiving care, without having to conceal their identities.

Norway's Jewish community is relatively small, with around 1,500 registered members, predominantly residing in Oslo. The situation is exacerbated by the Norwegian government's pro-Palestinian stance, which has raised fears within the Jewish population regarding the quality of care. Dr. Kirschner reported that although only a few documented cases have surfaced, the underlying issues reflect a broader trend motivated by political affiliations among healthcare professionals and organizations.

In light of these concerns, Dr. Kirschner encouraged professional associations to prioritize neutrality in healthcare settings. He suggested that medical unions should communicate the obligation of healthcare workers to remain impartial and refrain from political demonstrations while on duty.

Health Minister Jan Christian Vestre addressed these issues, affirming that "all patients should feel safe when treated in our public health service." He stressed the importance of dignity and respect in healthcare environments and indicated that creating inclusive spaces is the responsibility of local medical institutions, a need he expects to be addressed seriously.

The head of the Nurses Association has also recognized these issues and has promised to take action.

Alpeleg, an Israeli-Norwegian resident for over thirty years, remarked on the historical context of these concerns. He pointed out Norway's past involvement in the deportation of Jews during World War II and criticized the current government's refusal to classify Hamas as a terrorist organization. Alpeleg expressed unease about the impact of political elements on the ethical integrity of the healthcare system.

As these concerns for the Jewish community in Norway unfold, it remains vital for authorities to ensure that all citizens, regardless of background, can access healthcare services without fear of discrimination or bias.