Report by Ms. Lorena Schlicht, Mayors for Peace France (AFCDRP)
On November 26, 2024, the Cities of Remembrance network (led by the City of Dunkirk – France) held a virtual meeting in preparation for the 6th International Conference, scheduled for May 22-24, 2025, in Dunkirk and Ypres.
Key points included the introduction of Arras, welcomed as a new member city. The Greater Council of Dunkirk presented the proposed conference agenda, which will feature roundtables, workshops, visits, and commemorations. The City of Ypres led discussions on the theme “Memory and Diversity,” exploring how to involve young people and celebrate diverse historical contributions.
The City of Krefeld presented Villa Merländer, a site dedicated to Holocaust remembrance. An artistic collective proposed the Champ de Foire project, merging art and memory.
The meeting concluded with updates on the June 2024 symposium video broadcast and the Cities of Remembrance 2025 competition.
The upcoming conference will address how remembrance can promote peace, prevent nationalism, and reflect on a century of shared history.
Photo: courtesy of Mayors for Peace France