Are Jewish travellers safe with Uber & co.? Last week we spoke with Uber’s head of communications, Tobias Fröhlich, and Senior Associate in Public Policy, Martin Kumstel, about safety questions that are currently very much on the minds of Jewish passengers. Because of rising antisemitism, many Jews have a growing sense of insecurity when using the various ride-hailing providers. In their apps they therefore give false names, often have themselves picked up a block away from their home address and get out many metres before their destination. Reason enough for us to meet those responsible – initially at Uber, but subsequently also at the other companies offering similar services. In the conversation with Uber we were reassured by the numerous safety precautions that Uber takes to protect its guests as well as its drivers, and we discussed possible further measures by the company. An essential point for us is that neither drivers nor passengers should make political statements on journeys arranged by Uber.
We will also be speaking about this with further transport service providers, in order to put safe and discrimination-free travel for Jews on the agenda.
