Cultural anthropologist and religious studies scholar Lieke Schrijvers has received a Veni grant for her research into how young Jewish adults in the Netherlands find meaning, connection, and joy in a time of political and social uncertainty.
The war in the Middle East and the increased focus on polarization and antisemitism are having a major impact on Jewish communities. At the same time, Lieke Schrijvers observes a trend that is less visible in the public debate: more and more young Jewish adults are seeking positive ways to express their Jewish identity, for example through rituals, traditions, and communities.
Jewish young adults between the ages of 18 and 35
Through her research, Schrijvers is mapping out how young adults between the ages of 18 and 35 are shaping this journey. She is examining how joy is experienced and shared, what role religious and cultural traditions play in this, and how the current political situation influences these experiences. In doing so, she focuses specifically on the diversity within Jewish communities, including Orthodox, Liberal, and unaffiliated networks.
The research shows that emotions such as joy are not merely personal feelings but also carry social and, at times, political significance. In some communities, joy can be a form of resilience or solidarity, while in others it primarily fulfills a spiritual or religious function. Through long-term field research and in-depth interviews, Schrijvers aims to better understand how young Jews cope with the combination of grief, uncertainty, and the need for a positive identity.
Daily life in Jewish communities in the Netherlands
The findings provide new insights into the daily life of Jewish communities in the Netherlands, a topic that has received relatively little social science research to date. In doing so, the project broadens the picture of Jewish life, which in research and the media is often highlighted primarily through themes such as the Holocaust, antisemitism, and violence in the Middle East.
The societal significance of Schrijvers’ research extends beyond the Jewish community. The insights can assist organizations working to promote dialogue, social cohesion, and support for minorities. They also contribute to a better understanding of how communities shape identity and solidarity in times of social tension. In this way, the research offers tools to counter polarization and create more space for the diversity of experiences within minority groups.