The Nazi regime planned, targeted, persecuted and murdered an estimate of six million Jews – over 60% of Europe’s Jewish population and nearly 40% of the worldwide Jewish population at the time. These atrocities were committed by the Nazi Regime, its collaborators and individuals. This well-greased killing machine was fueled by hatred of the other, by racism, by bigotry, by indifference.
It is said that “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” I believe that this is the essence of the UN resolution which launched a worldwide remembrance and educational platform. I consider myself fortunate that in 2005, as Deputy Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations, I took part in the drafting, shaping and passing of this landmark resolution. Its global message has resonated for 12 the past years in every corner of the globe, and it will continue to do so in the future.
The Holocaust Outreach Program of the United Nations is an example of the positive impact the world body can have on the world. Very aptly chosen, the byline of this program is “remembrance and beyond”.
“Remembrance” to honor the victims and to remind us of the evils mankind is capable of.
Nowadays, more than 70 years after the atrocities, we all have greater responsibility to remember those who have perished, preserve and protect the truth about what has happened.
And this is the “beyond” – beyond the lessons of the past. By promoting awareness of the consequences of hatred, bigotry, racism and prejudice, we send a strong message to future generations about a past not to be repeated!
Ladies and Gentlemen,
With the rise of antisemitism, racism and extremism in our time, this is a universal message which speaks to mankind around the world. It is the message of a shared promise that we will never let anything like this happen ever again, to anyone, anywhere.
Every year, the UN chooses a theme for the International Holocaust Remembrance Day. This year the theme is “Holocaust Remembrance and Education: Our Shared Responsibility”. This responsibility has many levels. It is our responsibility as a society, as nations, as the international community, and as human beings to remember and never forget, to remember and vow together – never again!
Within the UN’s theme of “Our Shared Responsibility”, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign affairs has chosen to highlight a specific focus I am sure my friends in the diplomatic community will personally appreciate – Diplomats recognized as Righteous Among the Nations.
In Judaism, it is said that “whoever saves one life saves the world entire.” You may remember this line from the famous Steven Spielberg film “Schindler’s List”. It is wisdom put into action by Righteous Among the Nations from all corners of the earth who saw the evil taking place, and made a choice to save a life – or many lives, while risking their own.
There are many righteous among the nations recognized for their valiant personal choices, all merit respect, admiration and gratitude. For diplomats, individuals, yet formal representatives of their countries, another layer of appreciation is warranted for the courageous choices they made.
We honor them this year with a special exhibition displayed worldwide by Israeli embassies, in collaboration with the UN and others, called “Beyond Duty”. It is about 36 Righteous Among the Nations, diplomats from 21 countries: Brazil, Chile, China, Czechoslovakia, Ecuador, El Salvador, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, the Netherlands, Peru, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, The United Kingdom and the Vatican.
One particular story that of Raoul Wallenberg, a Swedish Diplomat serving as an attaché in Budapest, a “righteous among the nations” diplomat, is vivid and present, as his face greets me every time I enter my office. His portrait, drawn by one of the Israeli captors of Nazi murderer Adolf Eichmann, adorns my wall with the caption: the same hands that caught Adolf Eichmann, painted Raoul Wallenberg.
This poster is a reminder of the quest for justice while recognizing good, by appreciating one of the greatest rescuers of them all. It reminds me daily of the courage Raoul and other individuals had to risk their lives in an effort to save others. It is also a constant reminder that the role of the diplomat is not only to focus on the present and the future, but also to draw from the past for lessons for the future. I am honored to be joined by the diplomatic community here in Delhi as together we take time to learn from history to create a better tomorrow for us all.
As I conclude my remarks, I would like to thank the United Nations in Delhi, Alliance Francaise and various schools who have mounted this touching memorable exhibition and each of my respected counterparts in the embassies joining us here today. Only by joint efforts can we truly educate everyone around the world about the perils of hatred. Together we will ensure that we remember,educate and pledge - never forget, never again.
Thank you.