The National Institute for the Study of the Holocaust in Romania „Elie Wiesel” has reached out with an open letter to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI) and the Public Ministry, urging for a prompt investigation into the events that took place on November 30. This day saw supporters of the legionary movement gathering to commemorate Corneliu Zelea Codreanu at the site of his assassination. The institute emphasizes that such manifestations are in direct violation of Emergency Ordinance no. 31/2002, which prohibits organizations and symbols that promote fascism, legionism, racism, or xenophobia.
Over the past year, there has been a notable increase in hate speech, severely undermining the memory of Holocaust victims. The institute highlighted that while several individuals were prosecuted in 2025 for actions related to this legislation, the current climate suggests a regression to past behaviors. Pro-legionary demonstrations appear to be occurring under the watchful eye—and perhaps the protection—of authorities, which raises significant concerns about the enforcement of existing laws.
Representatives of the institute are questioning the efficiency of the legal framework in place and whether there is a troubling tendency to permit extremist ideologies to flourish unchecked. Such a trend would not only jeopardize the memory of Holocaust victims but could also lead to the normalization of extremist views in public discourse. Furthermore, the institute references a notable ruling from the Constitutional Court, which highlights the dangers of publicly glorifying extremist ideologies. This serves as a reminder of the potential societal repercussions if such trends are left unaddressed.
The institute’s call for immediate action emphasizes the urgency of addressing these gatherings and their implications. They argue that failure to act decisively might pave the way for a recurrence of similar events, thereby undermining the hard-won lessons from history regarding intolerance and hate. It is critical, they assert, for authorities to scrutinize the events in Tâncăbești and investigate any breaches of law rigorously.
In conclusion, the National Institute for the Study of the Holocaust „Elie Wiesel” is advocating for a recommitment to the values that safeguard human dignity and remembrance. Their letter serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vigilance in the face of rising extremist sentiments. It urges officials to not only uphold existing laws but to also foster an environment in which the memory of Holocaust victims is honored and respected. Continued dialogue and legislative reinforcement are essential in combating hate speech and preventing the resurgence of ideologies that threaten the fabric of society. As the institute stresses, the consequences of inaction are dire, and only through a concerted effort can the lessons of the past be effectively honored today.
