Today marks the 87th anniversary of Kristallnacht, also known as the Night of Broken Glass, a pivotal event in history that forever changed the course of human rights. On 9-10 November 1938, the streets of Germany and Austria were filled with the sound of shattering glass as synagogues were burned, Jewish homes and businesses destroyed, and thousands of Jewish men arrested and imprisoned.
This violent and state-sanctioned attack on the Jewish community was a turning point, where hatred and prejudice escalated into open violence. As we remember this tragic event, it serves as a reminder of the dangers of allowing discrimination to go unchecked.
However, this year’s commemoration carries even greater significance as we also celebrate the 75th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). This legal framework, born directly from the ashes of Kristallnacht, was crafted with the leadership of British and Jewish lawyers. It enshrines the principle that everyone’s rights and freedoms must be secured “without discrimination on any ground.”
In a time where division, scapegoating, and hate speech are once again on the rise, Article 14 of the Convention serves as a powerful reminder that the law can be both a shield and a bridge. It can protect the vulnerable and bring people together, regardless of their differences.
Kristallnacht is not only a story of destruction; it is also a story of resilience. It reminds us of those who rebuilt, who sheltered the persecuted, and who spoke out when silence was safer. As we reflect on this dark moment in history, the organization René Cassin reaffirms its commitment to that legacy. They stand alongside others to defend human dignity and work towards a society where equality is not merely an aspiration, but a lived reality.
As we remember Kristallnacht and the lessons it teaches us, let us also honor the resilience and strength of those who have fought for human rights and continue to do so today. May their courage and determination inspire us to create a better, more just world for all.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.