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International Holocaust Remembrance Day, observed on January 27, is designated by the United Nations to commemorate the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and honor the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust, along with the millions more who suffered under Nazism. Since 2005, the UN and its member states have held ceremonies to reflect on the atrocities of the Holocaust. Many countries also hold national commemorations on various dates associated with the Holocaust.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day Theme
The 2024 theme, “Recognizing the Extraordinary Courage of Holocaust Victims and Survivors” emphasizes honoring the remarkable bravery and resilience of those who endured the Holocaust, highlighting their strength and determination to overcome unimaginable challenges.
History
On November 1, 2005, the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 60/7, which officially designated January 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The date is significant because it marks the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp by the Red Army in 1945. The resolution unequivocally condemns all forms of denial of Nazism and calls on UN member states to actively protect sites that are part of the Nazi “Final Solution”, including killing. centers, concentration camps and prisons. International Holocaust Remembrance Day serves as a global initiative to remember the victims and educate future generations about the atrocities of the Holocaust.
Commemoration
Celebrations with different themes are held at UN headquarters every year, while the UN and government offices around the world conduct their ceremonies. Many countries, such as the United Kingdom, hold national events on Holocaust Remembrance Day (often 27 January), while others hold Holocaust-related celebrations at different times of the year.
