Museum Statement on Appointment of Neo-Nazi to European Parliament Civil Liberties Committee

WASHINGTON, DC—The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum condemns the appointment of Udo Voigt to the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs Committee. Voigt is a former leader of Germany’s National Democratic Party (NDP), which espouses Neo-Nazi views. He has praised Adolf Hitler, has claimed that far fewer than six million Jews were murdered in the Holocaust, and has been convicted of “incitement of the people.”

“Appointing anyone who holds these views to any European Parliament committee—much less one devoted to promoting individual rights—is deeply troubling,” said Museum Director Sara J. Bloomfield. “It is insulting to the victims of the Holocaust, and equally important, many Jews and other minorities in Europe are threatened by the rise of antisemitism and extremism. The European Parliament and its member nations need to address this matter with urgency and determination and uphold the parliament’s stated mission as a ‘fierce defender of human rights.’”

A living memorial to the Holocaust, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum inspires citizens and leaders worldwide to confront hatred, prevent genocide, and promote human dignity. Its far-reaching educational programs and global impact are made possible by generous donors. For more information, visit ushmm.org.

Related Links

Confront Antisemitism