Jewish population hits 15.8 million globally

(JNS) — On the eve of the Jewish year 5785, the Jewish population worldwide numbers 15.8 million, an increase of about 100,000 compared to 5784, according to data published by The Jewish Agency.

Israel is home to 7.3 million Jews, compared to 7.2 million at the beginning of 5784, while 8.5 million Jews live outside of Israel—including 6.3 million in the United States and 2.2 million in other countries, according to the data based on research by demographer professor Sergio Della Pergola from the Hebrew University.

“The existential relationship between the Jewish communities around the world and the State of Israel has strengthened in the past year. We are witnessing unprecedented support that provides us the strength and hope to carry on,” said Maj. Gen. Doron Almog, chairman of The Jewish Agency.

The Jewish population estimates for Russia and Ukraine were adjusted for the significant immigration that followed the war there. In some countries, calculations were made according to recent surveys and in other countries, the total was determined according to statistical data and accepted tools for demographic assessment.

The data in this study refers to what is defined as the core Jewish population: people who identify as Jews and/or sons and daughters of at least one Jewish parent, and who are not members of another religion.

The core Jewish population in countries with a total of at least 10,000 Jews, as of January 2024 (not including broad definitions of those entitled to the Law of Return), is as follows: France 438,500, Canada 400,000, Great Britain 313,000, Argentina 170,000, Germany 125,000, Russia 123,000, Australia 117,000, Brazil 90,300, South Africa 49,500, Hungary 45,000, Mexico 41,000, Holland 35,000,  Ukraine 32,000, Belgium 29,000, Italy 26,800, Switzerland 20,500, Uruguay 16,100, Chile 15,500, Turkey 15,000, Sweden 14,900, Spain 13,000, Austria 10,300, Panama 10,000.