An exhibition devoted to stories of Holocaust survivors and rescuers from nine European countries has opened in Brussels on the eve of the International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

The Jewish genocide in the war-torn Europe claimed millions of lives. In the face of the tragic fate of Jews, local populations of the German-occupied countries and some of the ordinary Germans were put in a dilemma which they probably had never imagined they would face: how to react to such mass atrocity? Attitudes differed widely, but only few offered help to people seeking to survive. For both groups that was a risky undertaking which could even cost them their life.

The exhibition presents accounts of rescue from nine European countries. By outlining stories of survivors along with those of rescuers, we seek to give a voice to both of these groups. We draw attention to their endeavours, courage and will to live, as well as wartime circumstances with which they had to deal. Their fates are shown against a broader historical background, giving a better understanding of local possibilities for Jews to survive and for helpers to provide aid.

Following its presentation in Brussels, the exhibition will be shown in other European cities.

Venue: European Commission, Charlemagne building