Beschreibung der Einrichtung

The International Youth Meeting Centre (IYMC) in Oswiecim/Auschwitz is an extracurricular educational institution which was established in 1986 as a result of an initiative by the Berlin branch of Action Reconciliation/Service for Peace with the support from the municipality of Oswiecim and former prisoners of KL Auschwitz. That was possible thanks to donations offered by individuals and institutions from Poland and Germany. These people and groups have contributed to the Polish-German reconciliation process and to Christian-Jewish dialogue.
The mission of the IYMC is historical and civic education, mainly of young people, in a spirit consistent with the values arising from the history and symbolism of Auschwitz, respect for human
rights, the fight against racism, antisemitism, and hostility towards “strangers,” spreading tolerance and respect for diversity.
The educational activities of the IYMC are based on two principles:
•Auschwitz was too painful an experience for mankind to forget;
•We can learn from the experience and draw conclusions from it for our future. Overcoming fears, prejudice, and hostility between people become possible through getting to know each other and coming to terms with history.
The IYMC is a place where barriers and prejudices are overcome. It is a place of reflection and dialogue, but at the same time a place of relaxation and fun. The IYMC is an integral part of Oswiecim’s city life.
The educational offer is primarily directed to the young people (age 16-26) from Poland and abroad. The additional offer (conferences, lectures, exhibitions, concerts) are dedicated to the inhabitants of the city of Oswiecim and the region as well as to other persons concerned with the subject.
The educational work focuses on:
•Study visits which serve to present the history of the Auschwitz camps and matters connected with them;
•International seminars (on anti-Semitism, racism, nationalism, international relationships, processes of democratisation);
•Training for teachers and counselors in youth exchange;
•Workshops (theatre, art, photography, journalism, etc.);