Marking the first International Day for Holocaust Remembrance, Yad Vashem and the Organization for Security Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) published guidelines for educators on commemorating Holocaust Remembrance Days. Developed as a practical tool for educators planning and organizing projects or commemorative events on the Holocaust, the guidelines were launched in Brussels on 27 January at a memorial ceremony for the victims of the Holocaust, hosted by the Belgian Chairmanship of the 55-member state OSCE (see 27 January 2006 – The World Marks International Holocaust Remembrance Day).

“These guidelines provide a plethora of examples of Holocaust-related commemoration and education projects,” explained Chairman of the Yad Vashem Directorate Avner Shalev before the launch. “Our hope is that they will empower educators to explore this complex and difficult subject matter with their students and in their communities.”

Currently available in five languages, (English, Russian, French, Flemish and Italian) the guidelines will be translated into additional languages over the coming months. They are accessible on both the OSCE and Yad Vashem websites and in hard copy with an accompanying CD of the best practice examples.

Part of a larger joint project between the OSCE and Yad Vashem, the guidelines began to be formulated during an international expert forum with the participation of OSCE member states at Yad Vashem last October. The meeting was generously funded by the Asper International Holocaust Studies Program, supported by the Asper Foundation, and developed with the support of the Government of Germany. Additional guidelines for educators on how to combat antisemitism and other forms of intolerance in the schools are also currently being developed.

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