Aims

• Recognise that the Holocaust was a tragically defining episode of the 20th century, a crisis for European civilisation and a universal catastrophe for humanity.
  
• Provide a national mark of respect for all victims of Nazi persecution and demonstrate understanding with all those who still suffer its consequences.
  
• Raise awareness and understanding of the events of the Holocaust as a continuing issue of fundamental importance for all humanity.
  
• Ensure that the horrendous crimes, racism and victimisation committed during the Holocaust are neither forgotten nor repeated, whether in Europe or elsewhere in the world.
  
• Restate the continuing need for vigilance in light of the troubling repetition of human tragedies in the world today.
  
• Reflect on recent atrocities that raise similar issues.
  
• Provide a national focus for educating subsequent generations about the Holocaust and the continued relevance of the lessons that are learnt from it.
  
• Provide an opportunity to examine our nation's past and learn for the future.
  
• Promote a democratic and tolerant society, free of the evils of prejudice, racism and other forms of bigotry.
  
• Support the view that all citizens - without distinction - should participate freely and fully in the economic, social and public life of the nation.
  
• Highlight the values of a tolerant and diverse society based upon the notions of universal dignity and equal rights and responsibilities for all its citizens.
  
• Assert a continuing commitment to oppose racism, antisemitism, victimisation and genocide.
  
• Support our shared aspirations with both our European partners and the wider international community centred on the ideals of peace, justice and community for all.