On August 2, 1944, more than 3000 Sinti and Roma imprisoned in Auschwitz-Birkenau were murdered, despite their fierce resistance. In memory of all 500,000 Sinti and Roma victims of the Holocaust, in 2015 the European Parliament declared August 2 the European Roma Holocaust Memorial Day.

Remembrance must also lead to action: antigypsyism remains a persistent challenge in Europe to this day, requiring continued efforts to challenge discrimination, foster inclusion and protect the human rights and dignity of Roma people.

For implementation in 2027, the EYF supports the long-term youth co-operation project “Roma Youth Remembrance: Youth Engagement with the Memory of the Roma and Sinti Holocaust”, organised by ternYpe International Roma Youth Network. The project strengthens youth engagement in Holocaust remembrance, combating present day discrimination and Roma youth participation across Europe. The project combines remembrance activities and educational workshops around 2 August, followed by multiplier activities in schools and youth spaces, and a digital remembrance campaign.

To learn more about the work of the Council of Europe in this field, visit the page of the Roma and Travellers Division and discover how it contributes to promoting and protecting the rights of Roma and Travellers in Europe.

Check out as well the Youth for Rememberance handbook that provides a detailed approach to youth-led remembrance efforts, with a focus on the Roma and Sinti Holocaust and its relevance in the modern society. This publication was produced as part of an EYF-funded initiative.