On March 16, 2025, Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral had the great honor of hosting Professor Gideon Greif, a world-renowned Israeli historian and expert on Auschwitz and Jasenovac. The event drew a large audience, including members of the Serbian community, representatives of the Jewish community, and members of the diplomatic corps, underscoring the broad significance of the topic.
In his powerful lecture, Professor Greif provided a comparative analysis of the atrocities committed at Auschwitz and Jasenovac, shedding light on the suffering endured by victims of both camps. He reaffirmed his steadfast commitment to defending the figure of 700,000 victims at Jasenovac, despite ongoing revisionist attempts to diminish the number. He emphasized that this statistic is the result of decades of meticulous research and that he will uphold his findings until the end of his life.
While addressing the topic of numbers, Professor Greif noted that the true focus should always be on the immense human suffering and the importance of remembrance. He expressed his disbelief at the obsession with numerical disputes, stressing that historical truth is best honored by ensuring that the memory of the victims is preserved and respected.
A particularly touching moment of the evening was the recognition of Professor Greif’s 74th birthday, which he humbly celebrated on the same day as his lecture. His dedication to truth and remembrance made the occasion even more meaningful.
The event was a profound opportunity for reflection, strengthening the ties between communities and reinforcing the commitment to historical justice. Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral extends its gratitude to Professor Greifand all attendees for their participation in this vital discussion.
