Skip to main content
Holocaust Memorial Day in an era of resurgent anti-semitism
We are seeing a rise in anti-semitism being used by the organised far right internationally on a scale not seen since the 1930s — which makes the lessons of the Holocaust more important than ever, writes WEYMAN BENNETT
The Holocaust showed what can result from racism being driven by the state, particularly in moments of extreme crisis for governments — and some parallels exist today in the political and economic climate that led to the rise of the Nazis in the 1930s

WEDNESDAY sees the now-annual Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) in Britain. When “Camp Auschwitz” hoodies are worn by Trump supporters rampaging at Capitol Hill, the many “be the light in the darkness” themed events for HMD are most timely.

The memorial day is commemorated each year on January 27, the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz in 1945. It is critical to keep the memory of the Holocaust alive, particularly when, for instance, the likes of QAnon are so pervasive with dangerous, racist and anti-semitic tropes.

Hungary’s Viktor Orban is one of several prominent European politicians who target philanthropist George Soros in anti-semitic campaigns. From Ukraine to Italy and Poland, the far right use mainstream anti-semitism to gain legitimacy. Only yesterday, far-right populists made serious electoral gains in Portugal. This will boost the far right elsewhere.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Princes amongst thieves
Interview / 17 April 2026
17 April 2026

TONY BURKE talks to Garth Cartwright author of Princes Amongst Men — Journeys With Romani Gypsy Musicians

Shoes at Auschwitz during commemorations in Poland to mark 80 years since the liberation of the concentration camp on 27th January 1945, January 27, 2025
Holocaust Memorial Day 2026 / 27 January 2026
27 January 2026

On May 16 1944, Romani families in Auschwitz-Birkenau armed themselves with stones, tools, and sheer collective will, forcing the SS to retreat – leaving a legacy of defiance that speaks directly to the fascisms of today, says VICTORIA HOLMES

Fanning the flames of fascism: Starmer’s betrayal of the working class
Features / 23 September 2025
23 September 2025

CLAUDIA WEBBE argues that Labour gains nothing from its adoption of right-wing stances on immigration, and seems instead to be deliberately paving the way for the far right to become an established force in British politics, as it has already in Europe

Attila the Stockbroker Diary / 11 July 2025
11 July 2025

Warming up for his Durham gig, the bard pays attention to the niceties of language