The importance of historical remembrance for European democracy
23.5.2023
Question for written answer E-001621/2023
to the Commission
Rule 138
Romana Tomc (PPE)
The Commission has, in the past, taken a number of initiatives concerning remembrance of totalitarian regimes in Europe. Most Member States have experienced a tragic period in their history. According to the 2007 Berlin Declaration on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaties of Rome, European integration is proof that we have learnt the painful lessons of a history marked by bloody conflict.
The Commission also promotes programmes addressing totalitarianism, and each year commemorates 23 August, which the European Parliament has declared Europe-wide Day of Remembrance for the victims of all totalitarian and authoritarian regimes.
In Slovenia, particularly over the past year, during a period of a government that includes the far left, there have been increasing calls to glorify totalitarian symbols and people who committed serious crimes against humanity in Yugoslavia (red stars, the names of totalitarian dictators written prominently in huge letters on hillsides). The glorification of totalitarianism regimes has a major impact on public discourse and the level of democracy.
- 1.How does the Commission view the glorification of totalitarian symbols in the context of projects it funds: remembrance trails, exhibitions, European Capital of Culture.
- 2.Does the Commission draw attention to such memorials, which can still be seen in some Member States and are also part of the public image of the Commission’s projects?
Submitted: 23.5.2023