Mediart Blog

International day of French Language

20/3/2025

Every year on March 20, the International Day of the French Language highlights a rich and vibrant language spoken by millions of people around the world. More than just a means of communication, French is a cultural heritage, a marker of identity, and a link between peoples. But in an ever-evolving world, what does the future hold for this language that unites us?

A Language with Global Influence
With over 320 million speakers across five continents, French holds a central place on the international stage. It is the official language of 29 countries and plays a key role in international organizations such as the United Nations and the European Union. But beyond institutions, French is above all a language of sharing, creativity, and exchange, enriched by a diversity of accents and cultures that make it unique.

An Invaluable Cultural Heritage
For centuries, the French language has shaped the literary and artistic landscape worldwide. From Molière to Camus, from Léopold Sédar Senghor to Annie Ernaux, Francophone authors have left an indelible mark on literature. French cinema, music, and theater also contribute to its global influence, inspiring and touching millions of people across the globe.

A Day to Celebrate and Pass On
Established by the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), this day is an opportunity to highlight the diversity and vitality of the French language. Events are organized worldwide: public speaking contests, public readings, festivals, and conferences—so many opportunities to rediscover the language and bring it to life beyond borders. In our city, the celebrations will take on a special significance with a large gathering in the central square, bringing together schools, associations, and French language enthusiasts. Linguistic games, exhibitions, and moments of sharing will punctuate the day, creating a space where young and old alike can explore the beauty of French in all its forms.

French in Numbers
French is currently the fifth most spoken language in the world, with approximately 320 million speakers, and could reach 700 million by 2050, according to the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. It is also the fourth most used language on the internet and the third most important language in global business. In Africa, where more than half of Francophones are located, its use continues to grow rapidly, thanks to Francophone education systems and a dynamic young population. But in a world increasingly dominated by English and digital technologies, how can we ensure that French maintains its influence and appeal?

Elodie Sallard

Elodie is a French volunteer involved in the International French Language Day.

The Power of being us.

5/3/2025

“Protecting our schools from all forms of violence also means fighting bullying, which inflicts physical and moral suffering on millions of children around the world.”
Audrey Azoulay
Director-General of UNESCO

Today, I met for coffee with the me of 10 years ago.

She was dressed very discreetly. Wearing skinny pants and a wide black sweatshirt, so her belly wouldn't show. She never liked to be noticed, she always wanted to be as discreet as possible.

Her hair was down, so her ears wouldn't show, in case anyone noticed them too much.

She was a little late, I guess because of the insecurity of thinking that I wouldn't be there when she arrived.

She asked for a chocolate, I already had one. I told her that I still didn't like coffee and that when others order it I'm still embarrassed to order. Coffee still sounds like adulthood and it's still something I sometimes don't want to admit.

She sat looking to the side, to see if anyone was watching or anyone who could overhear the conversation we were about to have. I told her that I don't worry about that anymore.

After 30 minutes she told me that there were some girls at school who were making fun of her, I asked her why and she told me that she wished someone would ask the girls.

She was fed up, she confessed to me that she couldn't take it anymore. They were not only picking on her physical condition, but also her financial condition. I wondered why they cared about that, if being so small that is the least important thing.

She told me that they did not want to play with her, that they avoided her, gave her mean looks and insulted her. The strange thing about all that is that her final sentence was: “and I don't understand why, if they are my friends”.

She told me that she couldn't cry, that she actually envied them, that security, that beauty she saw in them, she didn't hate them.

1 out of 3 children is a victim of bullying.

She told me that she didn't want to go to school anymore, that she was afraid and that she hadn't told anyone else.

I listened, but I didn't cry, I still didn't cry. I told her that a part of that child would always stay with us, that it was important to talk. She told me that she had no more strength, that she just wanted to stop suffering.

According to WHO, today about 9 out of 10 children live in countries where the law does not prohibit common forms of violence against children, such as physical punishment or even sexual abuse and exploitation.

She told me that she wasn't doing well at school either, she was getting bad grades and couldn't concentrate. I told her that it might be related to the girls treating her badly.

She asked me what she had done wrong, if someday this suffering would end, that she couldn't take it anymore. My throat would form knots every time she said each word. Today I still haven't found an answer.

I told her not to get used to it, that she couldn't normalize violent situations, whether physically, verbally or emotionally. She told me that there were times when she already did, because she didn't want to suffer. When the teachers saw what was happening, they said it was “kid stuff” and that “it would pass”. But on the contrary, it would always escalate.

She even heard that “violence is solved with violence”. Around 3 in 5 children are regularly punished by physical means in their homes. For adolescent males, violence - often involving firearms or other weapons - is now the leading cause of death.

I encouraged her to talk to me, I was always there even when she wanted everything to stop hurting. I told her that even today it still hurts a little, but we learn to deal with it the best way we can.

Protecting children from bullying is a matter of human rights.

Today I met up with the me of 10 years ago. And there was no coffee.

If you live it, if you see it, if you commit it, if you are part of it.

If it's your son, your brother, your classmate or your student. Take action.

Never be a witness, never be a mere spectator. Never be silent. Speak up. Because talking can save lives. Because speaking out can prevent. A grain of sand can be invisible if seen from a distance, barely perceptible, but several can create a great range of enormous mountains.

Ending violence is something fundamental, something we are all involved in. Every small step counts. Every little word makes a dent.

Clara Jené

Clara is a Spanish volunteer involved in the national Day against school violence & bullying.

MARCH 8: WHY IS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY STILL ESSENTIAL?

5/3/2025

“Today, we are celebrating the strength, determination, and resilience of women everywhere.”
- Michelle Obama for the 2022 International Women’s Day.

Every year, March 8 marks International Women's Rights Day, a moment to celebrate the progress made toward gender equality, but also to remind us that the road to real equity is still long. While some believe this day has become only symbolic, reality shows that it remains a crucial fight, on economic, political, social, and cultural levels.

A DAY BORN FROM WOMEN'S STRUGGLE FOR THEIR RIGHTS
The history of March 8 dates back to the early 20th century, when women around the world demanded better working conditions, voting rights, and equality with men. This date was officially recognized by the United Nations in 1977, but its origins trace back to workers and feminist movements at the beginning of the century.
In 1910, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed, at an international socialist conference, the creation of a day dedicated to the fight for women's rights. Later, the day of March 8 was chosen, in reference to the strikes of Russian female workers in 1917, which marked a turning point in social revolutions.

Today, while significant progress has been made, this day remains a crucial moment of mobilization to denounce persistent inequalities.

MAJOR ADVANCES, BUT PERSISTENT INEQUALITIES:

Voting rights and political participation: Women gained the right to vote in most countries (1944 in France, 1952 in Greece, 1971 in Switzerland, 2015 in Saudi Arabia). They now hold positions of power, yet they remain underrepresented in politics and business leadership.
Access to education: Today, more and more girls go to school and pursue higher education. However, in some countries, access to education remains limited due to sexist traditions and economic barriers.
Equal pay and professional recognition: While the gender pay gap has reduced in several countries, women still earn about 20% less than men for the same jobs (according to the International Labour Organization). Precarious and underpaid jobs are often held by women, and the glass ceiling still slows their rise to leadership positions.
Fighting against violence: The #MeToo movement has helped break the silence on gender-based and sexual violence. However, statistics remain alarming: for example, in Greece, around 33% of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence since the age of 15, according to the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights. Additionally, femicides in Greece have increased significantly, with a 187.5% rise between 2020 and 2021, from 8 to 23 cases (source: courrierinternational.com).

Of course, and fortunately, progress has been made, but true equality is still far from achieved.

WHY IS MARCH 8 STILL ESSENTIAL TODAY?
If you need more reasons to understand why is this day still very important:

To keep fighting against inequalities: March 8 is a powerful reminder that women's rights must be defended every day. Gender equality cannot be achieved without collective awareness and strong political commitment.
To give a voice to women worldwide: in many countries, women continue to suffer from systemic discrimination, violence, and injustices. This day is an essential platform to highlight their realities and struggles.
To inspire future generations: March 8 is also a message of hope for young girls, helping them realize that they have the right to study, choose their careers, make decisions, and live without fear.
Because setbacks are possible: history shows that rights gained are never guaranteed forever. In some countries, regressions are visible, particularly in reproductive rights (such as abortion bans in the United States and Poland). More than ever, in this complex worldwide context, March 8 serves as a reminder that these fights must continue.

HOW TO TAKE ACTION BEYOND MARCH 8?
Personally, the feminist cause resonates deeply with me, and in the face of all the discrimination that women still endure, I want to take action at my own level to fight against these inequalities and stop feeling powerless. If you, too, are looking for ways to get involved in this fight, here are some actions that can help make a difference:

Raise awareness: Educate yourself and others about gender inequalities, share resources, and encourage discussions.
Support organizations: Many NGOs fight for women's rights and need support: donations, volunteering, …
Push for workplace policies: Demand inclusive policies, fight the pay gap, and advocate for gender diversity in leadership roles.
Keep mobilizing: Join March 8 events to show commitment and call for concrete actions from governments.

In the end, March 8 should not be just a symbolic event where women receive flowers or where brands launch opportunistic marketing campaigns. It is a day of struggle, reflection, and action for a fairer world.
As long as inequalities exist, I truly believe this day will remain necessary. But beyond this date, it’s important to precise that every day should be a step closer to a future where women’s rights are no longer a debate, but a certainty.

Elia Vilard

Elia is a French volunteer involved in the international Womans Day

International Mother Language Day – A Focus on Greek Dialects

21/2/2025

On February 21st, International Mother Language Day is celebrated worldwide, promoting linguistic diversity, multicultural education, and the preservation of endangered languages. In Greece, this day is an opportunity to reflect on the rich linguistic diversity that exists within the country. Modern Greek is the official language, but a variety of regional dialects continue to be spoken, reflecting the country’s complex history and cultural influences. This article will
explore the significance of these dialects, their challenges, and the efforts to preserve them.

A language is a standardized system of communication, while a dialect is a regional or social variation of a language. Dialects share much of the vocabulary and grammar of the standard language but have distinct phonetic and grammatical features. The distinction between a language and a dialect often depends on social and political factors rather than purely linguistic ones.

As every other dialects, Greek ones have evolved over millennia, influenced by historical events, geographical isolation, and neighboring cultures. Among the most well-known dialects are Cretan, Pontic, Tsakonian, and Cypriot Greek. Each has its own distinctive features, shaped by the unique histories of the regions where they are spoken.

Cretan Greek is one of the most distinctive Greek dialects, preserving elements of ancient Greek, such as specific vowels and vocabulary. Similarly, Pontic Greek, spoken by Greeks
from the Black Sea region, has its own grammar and vocabulary, with many words derived from ancient Greek. Tsakonian, considered one of the oldest Greek dialects, is now critically endangered, with fewer than 4,000 speakers remaining. Cypriot Greek is widely spoken in Cyprus, with significant differences from standard Modern Greek in its phonetics and vocabulary, yet it remains an essential part of Cypriot identity.

In addition to these major dialects, Macedonian Greek, spoken in northern Greece, and Griko, a variant of Greek spoken in southern Italy, also contribute to the country’s linguistic
diversity. These dialects have been shaped by the movements of people across the Mediterranean and the Balkan Peninsula.

Despite their cultural importance, Greek dialects are facing decline. Urbanization has led many people to migrate to cities where dialects are less commonly spoken, and the
standardization of Modern Greek throughout the 20th century has diminished the use of regional dialects. This trend is most evident in rural areas, where dialects are often replaced
by Modern Greek, especially among younger generations.

However, some dialects have remained resilient. For example, Cypriot Greek continues to be widely spoken in Cyprus, where it is a symbol of national identity. Pontic Greek also has
strong roots, especially within diaspora communities, where it continues to serve as an important marker of cultural identity. In regions like Crete, Cretan Greek is still spoken in
many areas, especially in rural communities, where local traditions are strongly preserved.

Efforts to preserve Greek dialects are being made across the country. Local schools are introducing dialects into their curricula, and regional media outlets are publishing content in
these dialects, helping to maintain their presence in public life. In addition, online resources and social media have made it easier for younger generations to access learning materials in
their local dialects.

One of the key reasons to preserve Greek dialects is cultural identity. Dialects connect people to their heritage, history, and traditions. By maintaining their use, local communities
can retain their uniqueness and sense of belonging. In this sense, dialects are more than just modes of communication; they are living reflections of a community’s identity.

Efforts to preserve dialects are not limited to Greece. Other countries, such as Ireland and Wales, have successfully revitalized their languages and dialects through education and
media programs. In Hawaii, the Hawaiian language has seen a resurgence due to immersion schools and media initiatives that have helped preserve its cultural legacy. Similar efforts can be made to protect Greek dialects, ensuring that they continue to be a vital part of the country’s linguistic landscape.

The future of Greek dialects in a globalized world remains uncertain, but with continued efforts, these languages can survive. The key is to embrace dialects alongside Modern
Greek, not as a challenge to the national language but as a vital part of Greece’s cultural heritage. By doing so, we can help ensure that these dialects continue to be spoken and
appreciated for generations to come.

In conclusion, preserving Greek dialects is essential to safeguarding the country’s cultural identity. These dialects are not just relics of the past; they are a living testament to the
diverse and rich history of Greece. As long as there are speakers, Greek dialects will continue to thrive, ensuring that Greece’s linguistic heritage remains alive and well.

Nathan Jault, Alexis Larbaoui-Hazard

Nathan and Alexis are French interns in Praxis involved in the International Mother Language Day.

Radio and the challenge of climate change: informing, alerting, acting

14/2/2025

Climate change is a reality that is increasingly imposing itself on our societies, disrupting our ecosystems and endangering millions of lives around the world. Yet while the general public is now well aware of this crisis, there is still one player in the fight against it who is often underestimated: radio. This medium, sometimes perceived as outdated in the digital age, nevertheless plays an essential role in disseminating information, warning of climate disasters and educating people about environmental issues.
When extreme weather strikes, radio is often the first and last means of communication available. Its accessibility and ability to operate on very little power make it particularly valuable in rural or isolated areas, where electricity and the internet are sometimes cut off during hurricanes, floods or fires. In 2017, during the devastating passage of hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, radio was one of the only media capable of informing the population in real time. Similarly, in Australia, during the gigantic fires of 2019-2020, certain stations played a crucial role in guiding residents to safe areas.
But radio is more than just a warning system. It is also a formidable tool for giving a voice to the people most affected by climate change, those who are rarely heard in the mainstream media. In Africa, for example, many community radio stations enable farmers to share their experiences of drought and learn adaptation techniques from local experts. In the Pacific islands, where rising sea levels are a direct threat to the inhabitants, programmes are raising community awareness of possible solutions, such as reforesting mangroves or building natural dykes.
Unlike other media such as television or the Internet, radio is a relatively environmentally-friendly medium. It consumes very little energy and can be listened to with battery-operated or solar-powered equipment. Some stations are going even further to reduce their carbon footprint: in Kenya, for example, radios powered by solar panels are reducing the use of disposable batteries, while in Europe, some stations are gradually switching to digital technology to reduce paper printouts and optimise the energy consumption of their infrastructures.
In the face of the climate emergency, radio is proving to be a major ally. It informs, it alerts, it educates and it mobilises. At a time when climate misinformation is spreading on social networks and the public's attention is constantly riveted by ephemeral content, radio remains a reliable and accessible pillar for understanding environmental issues. On this International Radio Day, it is essential to recognise the crucial role of radio in the fight against global warming and to encourage its development as a tool for raising awareness and taking action. Because if we want to take effective action, we first need to be well informed. And radio, with its universal reach, remains one of the best ways of achieving this.

Elodie Sallard

Elodie is a French volunteer involved in the International Radio Day.

INTERNATIONAL RADIO DAY

12/2/2025

“Quoi qu'il arrive, la flamme de la résistance française ne doit pas s'éteindre et ne s'éteindra pas.”
“Whatever happens, the flame of French resistance must not and will not be extinguished.”
On June 18, 1940, a voice was heard from London that changed history. General Charles de Gaulle, in his famous Appel du 18 juin, used radio to encourage the French people to resist Nazi occupation. His speech, broadcast on the BBC, became a symbol of hope and strength. At a time when France was in turmoil and traditional communication channels had collapsed, radio provided a lifeline, allowing exiled leaders to reach their people. This event showed how powerful radio can be for spreading messages and bringing people together.

Radio started in the late 1800s, thanks to scientists like Heinrich Hertz, Guglielmo Marconi, and Nikola Tesla. In 1895, Marconi sent the first radio signal over a short distance, and by 1901, he successfully sent a message across the Atlantic Ocean. These early transmissions were primitive, but they laid the foundation for wireless communication.
Radio quickly became important for ships, helping with communication and even saving lives, like during the Titanic disaster in 1912. The ability to send distress signals through Morse code demonstrated how crucial radio was in times of crisis. Governments and businesses soon recognized its potential, leading to the establishment of radio stations and regulations to manage this new technology.

By the 1920s and 1930s, radio became a part of daily life. Many stations started broadcasting music, news, dramas, and live events. It was during this period that radio became a key player in shaping public opinion and culture. Families gathered around the radio to listen to entertainment programs, sporting events, and news reports.
During the Great Depression, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt used his Fireside Chats to comfort people, making radio a bridge between the government and its citizens. In 1938, Orson Welles’ The War of the Worlds radio play caused panic because listeners thought it was real news about an alien invasion, proving just how powerful the medium could be in capturing attention and emotion.
During World War II, radio was used for propaganda, morale-boosting, and news. The BBC and other stations helped people in occupied countries by sharing important messages and countering enemy misinformation. Resistance groups relied on radio to send and receive coded messages. De Gaulle’s Appel du 18 juin was one of the most famous examples of how radio could inspire action and change history.

In the 1950s and 1960s, television became popular, but radio adapted by focusing on music. The rise of rock 'n' roll, The Beatles, and pirate radio stations like Radio Caroline in the UK changed youth culture. The shift from AM to FM radio, which had better sound quality, allowed stations to specialize in different genres and cater to specific audiences.
During this era, DJs became cultural icons, and radio stations played a crucial role in launching music careers. The format of radio changed to include talk shows, phone-in discussions, and interactive segments, making it a more dynamic and engaging experience.
By the late 20th century, radio had even more variety. Talk radio, political debates, and 24-hour news stations like NPR, BBC Radio 4, and France Inter became important. In some countries, where press freedom was restricted, radio was still the best way to share independent news and opposition voices when governments controlled newspapers and TV. Stations like Radio Free Europe and Voice of America played crucial roles in broadcasting uncensored information to people living under oppressive regimes.

With the internet, many people thought radio would disappear, but it has changed instead. Podcasts, online streaming, and digital radio have made it easier to listen to what we want, when we want. Services like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube have changed how we enjoy audio, offering on-demand content and personalization.
Despite the rise of digital media, live radio is still essential. It remains the fastest way to deliver real-time news and emergency updates. Radio continues to thrive in regions where internet access is limited, proving its resilience and adaptability. Community radio stations, in particular, play a vital role in giving local populations a voice and fostering discussions on social issues.

From De Gaulle’s speech to today’s podcasts, radio has remained one of the most powerful ways to share information. It has adapted to technological changes, survived competition from television and digital media, and continued to influence culture and politics.
As we celebrate World Radio Day, we recognize its ability to inform, entertain, and connect people around the world. Whether through FM stations, online streaming, or digital broadcasts, radio continues to be a vital part of our lives. Its history is a testament to its importance, and its future remains bright as it evolves with technology and new generations of listeners.

Zwisler Léa

Léa is a French volunteer involved in the International Radio Day

February 06th, 2025

6/2/2025

I remember what getting my period meant for me. It was my personal step into being and feeling like a woman. For a lot of young girls this is not the case. At least for their parents or communities. In their case, cutting of a girls genitals is seen as the rite passage of a girls transformation into womanhood.
FGM remains a very complex and sensitive human rights issue, since it sits at the intersection of deeply rooted cultural tradition and the violation of the fundamental human rights. Therefore it creates a fine line where Activists have to on one hand respect cultural beliefs while on the other hand upholding the rights of women and girls.
Looking at the Cultural Context, this practice is common in communities across the African Continent, the middle East and parts of Asia. Even in European Regions and in Australia this is an upholding problem. Therefore this issue concerns everyone across borders.
It is often tied to traditions, religious beliefs and about purity, marriageability and idenity within a community. For example, parents view it as their responsibility to cut their daughters, so they won’t be seen as unclean or unable to marry, due to social expectations.
However, cultural traditions are not static and can evolve over time. Therefore the goal should not be to condemn cultures outright but engage with them. Evoke open debates and encourage introspection and transformation.
From the Human Rights standpoint FGM is clearly a violation of the rights of women and girls. The UN and WHO classified the practice as gender-based violence. Their core argument against FGM would be that cultural traditions should not override an individual´s right to health, control over their own bodies and freedom from harm. Moreover, a lot of girls are too young to consent when being cut, which also makes it an issue of child protection and gender equality.
FGM must be addressed with respect and empathy. People need to go into dialouges and promote awarness to support cultural evolution. This could esure dignity and safety for future generations. Therefore people in general, need to speak up for change and progress in women rights worldwide

Dublanka Lucia

Lucia is a German volunteer involved in the international day of zero tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation

WORLD WETLANDS DAY

3/2/2025

“Wherever land meets water, life abounds. Wetlands exist in every corner of this beautiful planet and have often been referred to as the arteries and veins of the Earth. Majestic and mighty, wetlands are a sight to behold”
— Dr. Musonda Mumba, Secretary General of the Convention on Wetlands
The 2nd of February is dedicated every year since 1997 to raising public awareness of wetlands.

If you don’t know what wetlands are, let me explain: they are shallow water areas that include all water ecosystems that support plant life and a variety of other organisms. They contribute significantly to the ecological health of not only water bodies but also to environments as a whole.
They can take different forms: “lakes and rivers, underground aquifers, swamps and marshes, wet grasslands, peatlands, oases, estuaries, deltas and tidal flats, mangroves and other coastal areas, coral reefs, and all human-made sites such as fishponds, rice paddies, reservoirs and saltpans.” (according to the United Nations definition).

WHY DO WETLANDS MATTER?

As you can understand, wetlands play a crucial role maintaining the benefits and services of the ecosystems. They are so important for their climate, social, environmental, economic, ecological, cultural, scientific, social, recreational and educational contributions. They also matter for really useful and natural processes such as water regulation, flood control and water purification.
We know that wetlands represent only 6% of the Earth’s land surface, yet more than a billion people (about 1 in 8 people on Earth!) rely on them in order to have a healthy life. These spaces are, of course, crucial for humans, but they also play a vital role in preserving a wide variety of organisms and animals.
Each year, this special celebration is centered around a specific theme. And this year it’s about Wetlands and human wellbeing: “Its goal is to highlight how all aspects of human wellbeing - physical, mental, and environmental - are tied to the health of the world’s wetlands.” (United Nations). The connection between wetlands and human wellbeing is emphasized to promote the preservation of these natural spaces, as they provide a lot of benefits on people, food supply, employment or even on tourism.

UNFORTUNATELY, WETLANDS ARE IN DANGER.

Like many ecosystems, they face high rates of decline, loss, and degradation: in 50 years, 35% of these spaces have been lost.

Active involvement and support are essential to help their conservation, restoration, and management. Pollution, climate change and human activities, such as agriculture and construction, pose significant problems to the preservation of these vital ecosystems.
That’s why having a day like Wetlands Day on February 2nd is so important. It gives an opportunity to educate people about these ecosystems and highlight their critical importance to our world. One of the main challenges is shifting mentalities to inspire governments and people to recognize the value of wetlands and make their preservation a priority.
I have always felt personally sensitive to environmental issues. I was lucky, my parents raised me to be aware of ecological concerns and to be mindful of the footprint I leave in nature. However, I know that, unfortunately, not everyone has had the privilege of receiving this kind of environmental education. This is why I truly think it’s so important to raise awareness, not just on special days like this but throughout the entire year.
Our actions to protect wetlands will shape the future for generations to come. I believe it’s crucial for us, as young people, to educate ourselves about these major issues so we can adopt responsible behaviors when interacting with nature. We must also acquire enough knowledge to pass it on to future generations.
#WWD2025 #WetlandsCOP15 #WetlandsForOurCommonFuture #NatureProtection #WetlandsAndHumanWellBeing #Wetlands2025

Elia Vilard

Elia is a French volunteer involved in the international day of Wetlands.

#Neveragain

27/1/2025

The International Day of Remembrance for the Victims of the Holocaust, observed annually on January 27th, is a day to honor the memory of the six million Jewish men, women, and children murdered during the Holocaust, as well as millions of others persecuted under the Nazi regime. This day is not only a tribute to the victims but also a powerful call to action, reminding us of the dangers of unchecked hatred, bigotry, and indifference.
January 27th was chosen for this observance because it marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest and most infamous Nazi concentration and extermination camp, by Soviet forces in 1945. At Auschwitz alone, over 1.1 million people—most of them Jews—were systematically murdered. The Holocaust, also known as the Shoah, was the result of a deliberate, state-sponsored plan to exterminate European Jews, but it also targeted Roma and Sinti communities, disabled individuals, political.
The need for remembrance extends beyond history; it is a response to the challenges we face in the present. Antisemitism, once again on the rise, reminds us of the fragility of tolerance and justice. In the past year alone, several alarming incidents of antisemitism occurred in Europe. In October 2023, Molotov cocktails were thrown at a synagogue in Berlin, and a fire was set in the Jewish section of Vienna’s Central Cemetery, accompanied by swastika graffiti—a grim echo of the horrors of the past. In Lyon, France, a Jewish woman was brutally stabbed in November, and swastikas were painted on her home. Such acts of violence and hatred demonstrate that antisemitism is not a relic of history but an enduring threat requiring constant vigilance.
Commemorating the Holocaust also prompts us to confront the painful truth that genocide did not end with the Nazis. The 20th and 21st centuries have seen other horrific genocides that demand our attention and action. The genocide in Rwanda in 1994, for example, resulted in the murder of approximately 800,000 Tutsi in just 100 days, fueled by dehumanizing propaganda and systematic hatred. Similarly, the 1995 massacre in Srebrenica during the Bosnian War saw the killing of over 8,000 Bosniak men and boys by Bosnian Serb forces. These atrocities, like the Holocaust, were not spontaneous—they were the result of escalating rhetoric, propaganda, and systematic dehumanization, which the world failed to stop in time.
These modern tragedies serve as a stark reminder that the lessons of the Holocaust have yet to be fully learned. Complacency in the face of hatred and discrimination can have catastrophic consequences. Genocides often begin not with violence but with words—rhetoric that marginalizes, dehumanizes, and isolates targeted groups. This is why it is essential to challenge hatred at its roots, whether it takes the form of antisemitism, racism, xenophobia, or other prejudices.
The duty to remember is not just about the past; it is about safeguarding the future. It involves educating younger generations about the Holocaust and other genocides, preserving survivor testimonies, and promoting critical thinking to combat denial and distortion of history. It also requires vigilance against modern forms of discrimination, ensuring that the seeds of hatred are not allowed to take root. By remembering, we not only honor the victims but also equip ourselves to recognize the warning signs of genocide and act to prevent it.
As we commemorate the Holocaust, we are called to reflect on our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to protect it. The promise of "Never Again" must extend beyond remembrance; it must inspire action. By fostering a culture of tolerance, empathy, and human rights, we can strive to ensure that the horrors of the Holocaust and other genocides are never repeated. Only through constant vigilance and commitment can we build a world where such atrocities are truly a thing of the past.

Zwisler Léa

Léa is a French volunteer involved in the International Day of Remembrance for the Victims of the Holocaust.

The Importance of Education

21/1/2025

Education is key to building a better future. It gives people knowledge, skills, and the ability to solve problems. Education helps people get jobs, understand the world, and make better decisions. It also teaches values like respect, teamwork, and responsibility.
Unfortunately, many children around the world still cannot access effective education. In countries like South Sudan, Afghanistan, and parts of Yemen, schools are often closed due to war, poverty, or lack of teachers. Girls are especially affected because, in some cultures, they are not allowed to go to school. This limits their chances of improving their lives and contributing to their communities.
Education can change lives in many ways. It opens doors to better jobs and higher incomes. It helps people take care of themselves and their families. Education also teaches critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are useful in all parts of life. People who are educated are more likely to help their communities and make informed decisions. Education transforms lives in many ways. It breaks the cycle of poverty by helping individuals secure better jobs and support their families. For example, scholarship programs in India have enabled rural students to become engineers and teachers, lifting their families out of poverty. Education also improves health—studies show that educated mothers are more likely to vaccinate their children, as seen in Kenya.
It empowers women by reducing child marriage and opening opportunities for economic independence, such as in Malawi, where education programs have drastically improved the lives of girls. Communities benefit, too, as education fosters leadership, reduces crime, and promotes equality. In Brazil, youth education in favelas has helped reduce violence and improve infrastructure.

Education also drives innovation and prepares societies for global challenges like climate change. In Bangladesh, schools teach children how to adapt to floods, saving lives. By investing in education, we unlock opportunities not just for individuals but for entire communities and nations, making progress and equality achievable for all.
Education is key to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It supports SDG 4: Quality Education, ensuring inclusive and equitable learning for all. It helps reduce poverty (SDG 1: No Poverty) by opening doors to better jobs and income, and improves health (SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being) by teaching about hygiene and nutrition. Education empowers women (SDG 5: Gender Equality) and fosters economic growth (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth). Additionally, it promotes environmental awareness, supporting SDG 13: Climate Action. By investing in education, we move closer to a sustainable and equitable future.
By supporting education for everyone, we can create a world where everyone has the chance to succeed. Education is not just about getting a degree—it’s about gaining the tools to build a brighter future for individuals and entire societies.
Education is the foundation of progress and opportunity. It is a right, not a privilege.

Kira Lamers

Kira is a German volunteer involved in the international day of education.