International Day of Remembrance for Holocaust Victims 2025

The United Nations General Assembly Resolution 60/7 established the Holocaust and the United Nations Outreach Programme and designated January 27 as an annual International Day of Commemoration in memory of Holocaust victims. This day is marked by ceremonies and events at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and its offices globally.

2025 marks 80 years since the end of World War II and the Holocaust, a period in history defined by unimaginable atrocities. In the wake of these events, the United Nations was founded to promote human rights, dignity, and lasting peace.

To honor this milestone, the Holocaust and the United Nations Outreach Programme has selected the theme for 2025 as “Holocaust remembrance and education for dignity and human rights.” This theme emphasizes the ongoing importance of remembering the Holocaust to advance dignity, human rights, and collective responsibility.

The Holocaust: A Stark Reminder of Hatred and Injustice

The Holocaust, executed by the Nazis and their collaborators, resulted in the systematic murder of six million Jews, as well as millions of others, including Roma, people with disabilities, political dissidents, and LGBTQ+ individuals. It serves as a tragic reminder of the horrors that can arise from hatred, dehumanization, and indifference.

Remembering to Protect Human Dignity

Holocaust remembrance acts as a defense against the dehumanization of individuals. By honoring the victims and survivors, the international community reaffirms the dignity of those who suffered horrific atrocities. This remembrance is not just about looking back; it is a call to action to protect human rights and dignity in both the present and future.

2025: A Milestone Year for Reflection

80 Years Since the Liberation of Auschwitz

In 2025, we mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau on January 27, 1945. This infamous Nazi concentration and extermination camp serves as a historical turning point and a stark reminder of the ongoing need to protect dignity, equality, and justice for all.

The Role of the United Nations

In the aftermath of the Holocaust and World War II, the international community came together to establish the United Nations in 1945. The UN was founded on the principles of peace, human rights, and international law to prevent such atrocities from happening again. The 2025 theme reflects this commitment by emphasizing education and remembrance as essential tools for building a just and equitable world.

Holocaust Remembrance: A Triumph Over Hatred

Preserving the Legacy of Survivors

Holocaust remembrance ensures the stories of survivors and the vibrant communities, traditions, and hopes that were destroyed are not forgotten. It honors those whom the Nazis tried to erase and guarantees that future generations understand the true human cost of hatred and bigotry.

Combating Holocaust Denial and Distortion

In an era where Holocaust denial and distortion persist, remembrance becomes an act of defiance against those who spread hate and attempt to rewrite history. Through education, the global community reaffirms its commitment to truth, justice, and the fight against anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

2025 United Nations Holocaust Memorial Ceremony

On January 27, 2025, the United Nations will host a special Holocaust Memorial Ceremony at its New York headquarters. This event will commemorate the 80th anniversary of Auschwitz's liberation and will include:

• Survivor Testimonies: Holocaust survivors will share personal accounts, highlighting resilience and the ongoing fight for dignity.
• Notable Speakers: The ceremony will feature speeches from the United Nations Secretary-General, the President of the 79th General Assembly, and representatives from various Member States.
• Host: The event will be hosted by Ms. Melissa Fleming, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications.

This ceremony reinforces the critical importance of remembrance and education in preventing future atrocities and promoting human rights.

The Ongoing Relevance of Holocaust Remembrance

A Call to Defend Dignity and Human Rights

The 2025 theme underscores the urgent need to address contemporary issues, such as rising hate crimes, anti-Semitism, racism, and human rights violations. Reflecting on the Holocaust can help the global community strengthen its efforts to combat discrimination and protect the dignity of every individual.

Promoting Education for Future Generations

Holocaust education plays a vital role in teaching future generations about the dangers of hatred and the importance of defending human rights. Educational initiatives promote empathy, critical thinking, and a commitment to justice, ensuring the atrocities of the past are never repeated.

In Conclusion

The International Day of Commemoration on January 27, 2025, highlights Holocaust remembrance, education, and the protection of human dignity, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz.

Coordinated by the United Nations, this worldwide observance highlights the need to fight hate, support human rights, and prevent such crimes. "Holocaust Remembrance and Education for Dignity and Human Rights" emphasizes the ongoing importance of education in preserving equality, justice, and peace for coming generations.