Sun, 07 Jun 2026 Berlin 00:17 DE / UKR / EN

Belgian Railway Reflects on Its Role in the Holocaust

A Holocaust survivor and the son of a Nazi collaborator share their experiences at the Train World Museum in Brussels, urging the importance of remembering history.

Belgian Railway Reflects on Its Role in the Holocaust
Photo: static.dw.com

At the Train World Museum in Brussels, two men recently came together to share their life stories, each representing a dark chapter of history. A Holocaust survivor stood alongside the son of a Nazi collaborator, recounting their experiences to students and delivering a powerful message about the dangers of forgetting the past.

This event served not only as a poignant reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust but also as a call to keep the lessons of history alive. The survivor recounted the brutal experiences of his youth, while the son of the collaborator reflected on the necessity of recognizing and accepting the truth about their shared past.

The gathering took place at a time when awareness of the dangers of antisemitism and racism is on the rise globally. Both men urged the younger generation to remain vigilant and to actively combat discrimination and prejudice. "It is crucial that we do not silence the voices of the past," emphasized the Holocaust survivor.

In recent years, the Belgian railway has taken steps to illuminate its role during World War II and contribute to educating the public about this history. This initiative highlights the importance of confronting one’s own past to learn from it and create a better future.

The event at the Train World Museum is part of a broader commitment to raise awareness about the atrocities of the Holocaust and to promote the significance of a culture of remembrance. The stories shared by these two men serve as a compelling reminder to never forget history and to actively strive for a more just society.