How do younger generations in the Netherlands and Germany remember the crimes committed by Nazi Germany during the Second World War? How can society ensure that the memory of the atrocities is being kept alive when there are no more contemporary witnesses? These and other questions will be discussed in a talk, moderated by Sandra Rottenberg, between young people from the Netherlands and Germany, as well as Dr Ralf Possekel (Foundation EVZ) and Emile Schrijver (Jewish Cultural Quarter).

By relating people’s shared experiences of suffering, history becomes more tangible and personal. How can we pass on these stories through the generations? The latest research (EVZ MEMO study) also shows that there seems to be a link between engaging with the past and striving for a freer future. As oppression and discrimination are seen as one of the biggest challenges of our time, freedom must be defended in every generation. Therefore, remembering the crimes of the National Socialists is important for our democracies. This way, young people in both the Netherlands and Germany can stand up against racism, discrimination, and other forms of violence. During the event, we will present research results from Germany and the Netherlands on awareness of history and discuss them with young people and experts from both countries.

This event is an initiative of the Goethe Institut, in cooperation with the Foundation Remembrance, Responsibility, Future (Berlin) and Stichting Stolpersteine.

This debate is part of the 5th of May programme at the Goethe Institute. You can also join the Vrijheidsmaaltijd (Freedom Meal) at 13.30 and the screening and Q&A of the movie Lange Schatten des Schweigens (Long Shadows of Silence) at 19.00.