Every year on January 27, International Holocaust Remembrance Day takes place. This date marks the liberation of Auschwitz in 1945 and is commemorated with ceremonies held around the world. For this symbolic occasion, Kazerne Dossin organized a solemn ceremony. In the presence of politicians, ambassadors, and delegates from 20 different countries, wreaths were laid in front of the historic Dossin Barracks to honor the 25,843 individuals deported from Mechelen during the Second World War.
Between 1942 and 1944, 25,490 Jews and 353 Roma and Sinti were deported from the Dossin Barracks in Mechelen. Most of the trains transported them to Auschwitz-Birkenau. Only 5% survived the war. Today, this former military site serves as a serene space for remembrance and reflection.
Kazerne Dossin invited several representatives to lay wreaths at this meaningful location. Politicians, ambassadors, and delegates from 20 nations—including Norway, Israel, Chile, Slovenia, and the United States—were present to pay their respects. You can view the full list of attendees here: Link to the list of attendees.
Photos event and list of attendeesClaude Marinower, Vice President of Kazerne Dossin, addressed the guests at the beginning of the ceremony:
We gather here today to remember. This is a moment of deep reflection, awareness, and recognition. We not only honor the countless victims of the Holocaust, but we also acknowledge that this past holds a significance that impacts us all.
Tomas Baum, Director of Kazerne Dossin, highlighted the importance of remembrance:
“Never again.” These words resonate powerfully—not merely as a slogan, but as a promise. History calls on us to keep listening, to remain open to the stories of others, and to show empathy for perspectives beyond our own. It also demands that we critically reflect on our own actions, the choices we make, and the world we shape together.”
In collaboration with the Peace Center, Kazerne Dossin is also hosting a screening of the film “The Last Jewish Summer” at the Arenberg Theatre in Antwerp. Admission to the screening is free, and the event will feature a discussion with director Thom Vander Beken and Tomas Baum.
More information and tickets
