Ursula Havebeck is dead. News of her death first spread in right-wing extremist internet forums. Haverbeck’s defense lawyer Wolfram Nahrath later informed the Hamburg regional court by email.
She was the widow of a former member of the Reich Leadership of the NSDAP. Ursula Havebeck has been convicted several times of inciting hatred. Recently, the Hamburg Regional Court confirmed her 16-month prison sentence without parole.
In 2018, Havebeck went to the Federal Constitutional Court for another prison sentence, but he also failed there. She was in custody from May 2018 to November 2020.
At the same time, she stood as a candidate for the extreme right-wing party “The Right” in the European elections five years ago. That’s also why the neo-Nazis admired her.
Havebeck repeatedly claimed that the murder of six million Jews in the Nazi gas chambers did not take place. Auschwitz was not an extermination camp, but a labor camp. and
What are the main arguments used by Holocaust deniers and how can they be effectively debunked?
Interview with Dr. Anna Schmidt, Historian and Expert on Holocaust Denial
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Schmidt. The recent news of Ursula Havebeck’s death has reignited discussions about Holocaust denial and its implications. Can you provide some context on who Ursula Havebeck was and her impact on extremist ideologies?
Dr. Anna Schmidt (DAS): Certainly. Ursula Havebeck was a prominent figure among right-wing extremists in Germany, notably for her repeated claims that the Holocaust did not occur as documented. She was the widow of a former NSDAP member and had been convicted multiple times for inciting hatred, receiving a 16-month prison sentence that was upheld by the Hamburg Regional Court. Her defense attorney confirmed her passing, which was first reported in right-wing extremist forums. This indicates her notable presence in those circles.
TNE: It’s troubling to see figures like Havebeck gaining attention. What does her case tell us about the state of Holocaust denial and its acceptance in certain extremist groups?
DAS: Havebeck’s case is indicative of a broader trend where extremist groups find inspiration in individuals who promote revisionist history. Her candidacy for the extreme right-wing party “The Right” in the 2019 European elections exemplifies how such ideologies can permeate mainstream politics. The admiration she received from neo-Nazis showcases how dangerous these narratives can be, as they often challenge the factual account of historical atrocities like the Holocaust.
TNE: Given her persistent denial of the Holocaust, how do these ideologies affect public perception and education about this dark chapter in history?
DAS: Holocaust denial can severely distort public understanding. It creates an environment where misinformation spreads, particularly through digital platforms and extremist forums. Education is critical in combatting these narratives. Schools and universities must incorporate comprehensive Holocaust education that addresses and counters denialism, providing students with factual, evidence-based learning.
TNE: What practical steps can individuals take to challenge and combat Holocaust denial in their communities?
DAS: First and foremost, individuals should educate themselves about the Holocaust and the extensive documentation proving its occurrence. Engaging in discussions and promoting awareness of the consequences of denialism is crucial. Supporting organizations that educate about the Holocaust and preserve its memory can also make a significant difference. Encouraging critical thinking and media literacy, especially among younger generations, is essential in identifying and discrediting extremist propaganda.
TNE: What does the future hold for movements that promote Holocaust denial, especially in light of Ursula Havebeck’s recent death?
DAS: While the loss of a prominent figure may temporarily impact extremist movements, the ideologies that underpin Holocaust denial are deeply ingrained in certain groups. It is vital for society to remain vigilant. Continuous efforts in education, legal measures against hate speech, and public discourse are necessary to counter these hateful ideologies actively.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Schmidt, for your insights into this important issue. It’s crucial for our readers to understand the implications of Holocaust denial and the need for robust educational measures to prevent its spread.
DAS: Thank you for having me. It’s essential to keep this conversation alive and stress the importance of remembering history accurately to honour the victims and prevent future atrocities.