Holocaust survivors in the International Auschwitz Committee are pleased at the news and welcome the city of Berlin’s recognition of Inge Deutschkron and Margot Friedländer by making them honorary citizens.

In this context Christoph Heubner, Executive Vice President of the IAC said:

"Inge Deutschkron and Margot Friedländer are survivors of the Holocaust who, as contemporary witnesses and partners in dialogue, especially with young people, have helped to stabilize and broaden the base of democracy in Germany for very many years. They have sensitized and motivated especially young people for democracy and tolerance through their personal accounts, their examples and above all their sincere interest in the young people’s future. The significance of their engagement cannot be overestimated, particularly in these times of increased anti-Semitic tendencies and the revival of antediluvian xenophobia.

It can be regarded as an honour for Berlin that Inge Deutschkron and Margot Friedländer are prepared to accept the honorary citizenship, and that it is no longer considered a burden on their memories of this city, where they were once declared objects of hatred as Jewish Germans and rendered defenceless outcasts by stripping away their civil rights. The Holocaust survivors congratulate Inge Deutschkron and Margot Friedländer. They are happy that the list of women and men who have been made honorary citizens of Berlin has gained two highly respected women, and they are sure that Inge Deutschkron and Margot Friedländer will carry on accompanying democracy in Berlin and Germany with their steadfast and clearly audible voices. They are urgently needed now in these times."