Antigua and Barbuda today joins the global community in observing International Holocaust Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to honouring the millions of lives lost during the Holocaust under Nazi Germany.

Observed annually on January 27, the day marks the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp by Soviet forces in 1945. It was formally designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2005 as a moment for remembrance, reflection, and renewed commitment to preventing genocide and mass atrocities.

As part of the commemoration, a delegation of Jewish leaders met on Sunday with Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim. Among the delegation was Clive Lawton, Head of the Commonwealth Jewish Council, an organisation affiliated with the Commonwealth Secretariat. Lawton has also expressed strong support for Antigua and Barbuda’s preparations to host the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

In his remarks, Dr. Pilgrim underscored the historical significance of the day and its relevance in the modern world, noting that remembrance extends beyond honouring the victims to confronting the forces that allowed such atrocities to occur.

He stressed that the Holocaust serves as a powerful warning of the dangers of hatred, indifference, and moral complacency, and called for continued vigilance in defending human dignity and opposing intolerance in all its forms.

Dr. Pilgrim further highlighted that the values reflected in Holocaust remembrance are consistent with the principles outlined in the United Nations human rights framework and the CARICOM Civil Society Charter, which affirm equality, inclusion, and respect for all.

He concluded by encouraging renewed commitment to education, truth, and collective responsibility, emphasizing that remembrance must inspire action to ensure that such crimes against humanity are never repeated.