The Lithuanian Parliament has adopted a resolution urging Lithuanian and global societies to remain vigilant against antisemitism, racism, xenophobia, and other spreading forms of hatred.
Eighty-three members of the Lithuanian Parliament voted in favour of the resolution, none voted against, and five parliamentarians abstained.
“Today, as we discuss crimes against humanity and criminal acts committed by totalitarian regimes, it is crucial to remember,” said Saulius Skvernelis, Speaker of the Lithuanian Parliament, who presented the draft resolution during the meeting.
“It is important to once again reaffirm our state’s position, to express solidarity and support for all nations and states that commemorate this day, value its significance, and recognise that the Holocaust was a great tragedy for Europe and the world. The unlearned lessons of World War II have provided the basis for inciting antisemitism and undermining the foundations of democracy,” he emphasised.
Through this resolution, the parliament condemns all forms of totalitarianism, its crimes, and any collaboration with the Nazi and communist regimes during the Second World War.
The resolution also supports further investigation into the crimes of totalitarian regimes, promotes a deeper understanding of these crimes, and advocates for the implementation of relevant educational programmes.
The Lithuanian Parliament also highlights the importance of combating antisemitism, xenophobia, and incitement to hatred in all forms at both national and international levels. It condemns manifestations of antisemitism in Europe and around the world, as well as statements by politicians with racist and antisemitic undertones.
In this resolution, the Lithuanian Parliament proposes an amendment to the Lithuanian Law on Remembrance Days, designating 23 September as the Day of Remembrance for the Holocaust and the Resistance of Lithuanian Jews to the Nazis.
Furthermore, the resolution proposes that 27 January be commemorated in Lithuania as International Holocaust Remembrance Day, to honour those who resisted the Nazi regime, saved its victims, and fought for the lives and freedom of others.
The resolution adopted by the Lithuanian Parliament also expresses support for the Lithuanian Government’s efforts to develop a national plan to combat antisemitism, xenophobia, or any other form of incitement to discord. It supports continuing the policy of fostering Jewish life in Lithuania and preserving the memory of the Holocaust.
Additionally, the Cabinet of Ministers’ ambition to support the restoration of Lithuania’s historical Jewish cemeteries and massacre sites, the development of memorial sites and educational activities, the preservation of Jewish architectural heritage, and the strengthening of ties between the Lithuanian and Litvak diasporas worldwide, is also supported.