Museum Welcomes United Nations' General Assembly Resolution on Holocaust Denial and Distortion

WASHINGTON, DC – The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum welcomes the United Nations General Assembly resolution calling on member states to counteract Holocaust denial and distortion, especially on social media. 

“We applaud this global condemnation of Holocaust denial and distortion, which are dangerous forms of antisemitism,” says Museum Director Sara J. Bloomfield. “This is especially important as violent antisemitism is on the rise. History shows us that mass communications and the propaganda they facilitate have the potential for good or ill. Social media can reach billions in seconds and enable communities of hate to develop. Hitler once said, ‘Propaganda is a truly terrible weapon in the hands of an expert.’ With social media, anyone can be an expert. The UN resolution is an important step, but addressing antisemitism will require efforts from governments, companies, organizations, and individuals worldwide, and we hope this resolution will spark further action.” 

The resolution, sponsored by the State of Israel and adopted by consensus, references the definition of Holocaust denial and distortion established by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, which was developed with input from the Museum. The Museum’s report on Holocaust denial and distortion in Europe and related recommendations can be found here. 

A federally chartered, nonpartisan educational institution, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum serves as America’s national memorial to the victims of the Holocaust and is dedicated to ensuring the permanence of Holocaust memory, understanding, and relevance. Through the power of Holocaust history, the Museum challenges leaders and individuals to think critically about their role in society and to confront antisemitism and other forms of hate, prevent genocide, and promote human dignity. For more information, visit ushmm.org.