The challenge of Democracy: The Creation of the International Prisoners Committee of Dachau

On April 28, just a day before the concentration camp was liberated, a group of prisoners established the International Prisoners’ Committee, comprising representatives from all major nationalities within the camp. This act symbolized democracy and solidarity, as the prisoners united to rise above hatred, prejudice, and nationalism. The Committee took on the responsibility of leading and supporting their fellow inmates. When the American liberators arrived, they acknowledged the Committee as the sole legitimate body to assist in managing the liberated camp. Despite this recognition, the Committee faced numerous daunting challenges. In this video we will explore the difficulties they encountered and the solutions they sought to implement.