In March 2024, the United Kingdom took the helm as the president of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), underscoring its dedication to commemorating the Holocaust
and thwarting antisemitism.
With 35 member nations alongside contributions from academia and civil society, the IHRA concentrates on advancing Holocaust education and remembrance globally. During its presidency, the UK has chosen the theme "In Plain Sight," aiming to illuminate the societal factors that facilitated the Holocaust. The initiative seeks to educate younger generations, uphold historical accuracy, and counteract distortions and antisemitic sentiments, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence and online disinformation. This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts as the UK confronts a concerning uptick in antisemitic incidents. Prime Minister Sunak has vehemently condemned such acts and announced an additional £54 million in security funding earmarked for Jewish communities, part of a broader £72 million security initiative.
Simon Walters, the British Ambassador to Israel, expressed the gravity of the moment, stating, "The Holocaust stands as humanity's darkest chapter, a stark reminder of our collective responsibility. As we assume the IHRA presidency, the UK remains resolute in safeguarding the Jewish community and combating antisemitism wherever it rears its head." Photo by Mark Fosh from Watford, UK, Wikimedia commons.