Statement by Ambassador H.E. Eglantina Gjermeni, Permanent Representative of Albania to International Organizations in Vienna,
on the Dangers of Holocaust Distortion and Denial
Meeting 1563 of the Permanent Council, 7 May 2026, Vienna
Distinguished Chair, Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The delegation of Albania thanks the delegation of the United States of America for raising this important issue, and we also thank Ms. Ellen Germain, U.S. Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues, for joining us here today, as well as for her remarks and continued engagement on this matter.
The question before us “How can we best combat Holocaust distortion and denial?” goes beyond preserving historical truth. It is also about defending the foundations of democracy, human dignity, and the rule of law.
The year 2025 has demonstrated that antisemitism is not a phenomenon of the past. Across the OSCE region, it has increased in visibility, scale, and sophistication, both offline and online. Holocaust denial and distortion are no longer confined to the margins; they increasingly emerge through coded language, conspiracy theories, manipulated narratives, and the normalization of hate in digital spaces. This makes them more difficult to identify, confront, and ultimately, more dangerous.
Albania believes that combating Holocaust distortion must begin with education, institutional responsibility, and political courage. Remembrance alone is not enough. We must ensure that future generations understand not only the facts of the Holocaust, but also the consequences of indifference, dehumanization, and silence.
As Prime Minister Edi Rama stated at the Knesset earlier this year: “When others delivered their Jewish neighbours to the authorities, Albanians delivered them to safety. When obedience became the silent ally of evil, our grandparents chose the perilous path of responsibility.” He also reminded us that “antisemitism starts with Jews, but threatens all humanity.”
This legacy continues to guide Albania today. Albania was among the first European countries to adopt the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, and we support the use of the IHRA Working Definition of Holocaust Denial and Distortion as essential tools for identifying and confronting contemporary forms of antisemitism. We have integrated Holocaust education into school curricula and continue to invest in cultural and memorial initiatives that preserve historical truth and honour those who chose humanity over fear.
As Chair of the OSCE Human Dimension Committee, Albania considers it a responsibility to ensure that our commitments are not treated as symbolic declarations, but as obligations requiring concrete action and constant vigilance. We look forward to further our reflections at the HDC meeting on tolerance and non-discrimination planned in late June.
The OSCE has established strong commitments to address antisemitism and Holocaust distortion. What is needed now is consistent implementation, political will, and continued cooperation among participating States.
By confronting distortion and denial, we protect not only Jewish communities, but also the democratic values and human dignity upon which our societies are built. Thank you.
