António Manuel de Oliveira Guterres · "We have a duty to remember the victims of the Holocaust and to ensure that suc..."

Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony, January 2020 · Checked on 1 March 2026

We have a duty to remember the victims of the Holocaust and to ensure that such atrocities never happen again. But memory is not enough; we must act against hatred wherever we see it.

Analysis

The United Nations released a transcript of Guterres' remarks on 27 January 2020, in which he said, “We have a duty to remember the victims of the Holocaust and to ensure that such atrocities never happen again. But memory is not enough; we must act against hatred wherever we see it.” The wording in the claim matches the official speech, confirming its accuracy.

Background

International Holocaust Remembrance Day is observed each year on 27 January, marking the liberation of Auschwitz. As UN Secretary‑General, Guterres regularly addresses the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and combating anti‑Semitism and hate. His 2020 remarks were part of a broader UN campaign against hate speech and genocide denial.

Verdict summary

António Guterres did make a statement at the January 2020 Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony urging remembrance and action against hatred.

Sources consulted

— United Nations – Press Release, “UN Secretary‑General’s remarks at the International Holocaust Remembrance Day ceremony, 27 January 2020” (UN.org)

— UN Web TV – Video of Guterres' speech, International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2020

— FactCheck.org analysis of UN Holocaust remembrance statements (2020)