Canada and the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance

Image of Dr. Mario Silva
Dr. Mario Silva, 2013 Chair of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance

On March 5, 2013, Canada became the Chair of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance. Dr. Mario Silva will Chair the IHRA for Canada until March 2014.

The IHRA is made up of government officials and experts from 31 countries. It is guided by the principles identified in the Stockholm Declaration. Its objectives include:

  • supporting Holocaust education, remembrance and research in member countries and around the world;
  • promoting the development of civil society through an annual grant program of approximately €350,000;
  • working in partnership with other international organizations to support these principles and objectives.
Image of Senator Linda Frum
Senator Linda Frum, Co-Chair of the 2013 International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance Chair Advisory Council

Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney appointed an advisory council, co-chaired by Dr. Silva and Senator Linda Frum, to provide support and advice on domestic initiatives for the duration of the Chair Year.

“Membership in this important body provides Canada with an opportunity to work internationally to combat racism and anti-Semitism. This government believes it is critically important to be engaged in efforts to teach future generations the lessons of the Holocaust and to help prevent future acts of genocide.” Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism