Argentina has assumed the presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), an intergovernmental organization that brings together governments and experts to promote Holocaust education, research, and remembrance worldwide.
This marks the first time in its history that IHRA is crossing the equator; it is also the first time a South American country has taken on this responsibility.
The presidency of IHRA lasts for one year. Israel held the position from March 2025 to February 2026.
In a handover ceremony from Israel to Argentina that took place at the San Martín Palace, the following dignitaries were present: Foreign Affairs, International Trade, and Worship Minister Pablo Quirno; the director of the Buenos Aires Holocaust Museum, Marcelo Mindlin, who will serve as incoming IHRA chair; IHRA Secretary-General Michaela Küchler; outgoing IHRA chair Dani Dayan; members of the local IHRA chapter; and representatives of the Argentine Jewish community.
Argentinian President Javier Milei said Argentina assumes the presidency of the IHRA with “unwavering conviction to defend historical truth, preserve the memory of the victims, and wage an uncompromising fight against antisemitism and all forms of totalitarianism.”
He also reiterated his country’s “unbreakable” commitment to the US and the State of Israel.
“The United States congratulates Argentina as it begins its presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance,” US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said.
“At a time of rising Holocaust distortion and denial, IHRA’s leadership is vital. We commend President Milei’s commitment to sharing truth and honoring survivors.”
Quirno stated that the IHRA presidency has “special significance” and fits into Argentina’s understanding that “defending the memory of the Holocaust is part of a broader struggle against falsehood, fanaticism, and all forms of moral degradation that threaten free societies.”
New IHRA chair emphasizes efforts against antisemitism
Mindlin, who Milei chose to lead IHRA, noted that governments of different political orientations have, for over 20 years, “agreed on the importance of being part of IHRA and developing policies of Holocaust education and remembrance.”
“There is no doubt that this true state policy contributed to President Milei’s decision to assume this presidency,” he said.
Mindlin also contextualized the IHRA presidency as part of Argentina’s long-term efforts against antisemitism, noting that the country has already adopted the IHRA definition of antisemitism in its state, judiciary, civil society organizations, and other public bodies.
“[The definition] is a crucial tool in combating antisemitism, and our country can proudly point to its successful implementation,” he said.
Dayan said he was confident that IHRA under Argentina “will continue expanding its reach and deepening its impact.” He also said he is looking forward to hearing more voices from Spanish-speaking countries and communities as they join IHRA’s mission.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also expressed confidence in Argentina’s presidency of the alliance, saying it will “serve as a vital force in combating Holocaust denial and honoring survivors.”
Two IHRA plenary meetings will be held in Buenos Aires: the first from June 1-4 and the second from November 2–5.
Argentina’s presidency will be guided by the motto “Expanding the frontiers of memory.”
It is worth noting that over 5,000 Holocaust survivors arrived in Argentina after World War II, making it home to one of the most significant survivor communities in South America. Around 150 of them still live in the country.