Minister Fajon’s words on International Holocaust Remembrance Day: Let us maintain tolerance and respect

Ministrica Fajon s svečko spomina na žrtve holokavsta | Author MZEZ

International Holocaust Remembrance Day marks the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the largest and deadliest Nazi concentration camp, on 27 January 1945. With its 1.5 million Jewish victims, Auschwitz stands as a haunting testament to the horrors of the Holocaust. This day not only preserves the memory of the mass atrocities, but also raises awareness to ensure that genocide is never repeated.

"On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, the best way to honour the victims and survivors of the Holocaust is to make sure that future generations understand the historical facts and recognise the ongoing relevance of this period in history. The promise of 'never again' is about more than just protecting the weak and vulnerable. It is also the foundation for safeguarding our democratic society and respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms. Despite the brutal events unfolding in Europe and around the world that sharply contradict our values of humanity and justice, we must remain tolerant and respectful. Strong feelings of helplessness and anger should not lead to rash actions. Let us be guided by the desire for peace, not by hatred," emphasises Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon in her message.

The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs highlights the importance of raising awareness, both in Slovenia and through its international activities. As a member of the Slovenian delegation to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), the Ministry has supported Holocaust remembrance, research and education for many years. It has also actively contributed to efforts to help prevent such atrocities from happening again. Towards the end of last year, Slovenia prepared a translation of the 'Recommendations for Teaching and Learning about the Persecution and Genocide of the Roma during the Nazi Era', and is currently working on an updated version of the 'Recommendations for Teaching and Learning about the Holocaust'. These recommendations will be used by educators at all levels, as teaching about the Holocaust is essential to preserving the memory of the past.

Around six million Jews, 500,000 Roma and many members of other minorities, as well as political opponents of Nazism and Fascism from many different countries - including Slovenians - perished in concentration camps during World War II. On International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we should also honour the Righteous Among the Nations and others who helped save lives during this tragic period, including Slovenians.