26th Commemoration of the Monument of Tolerance in Haelen with international ambassadors

HAELEN – On Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM, the annual commemoration will take place at the Monument of Tolerance in Haelen (municipality of Leudal). This year, the ceremony is being organized for the 26th time — more than a quarter of a century in which people collectively reflect on the sacrifices of the past and the value of peace and reconciliation.

The commemoration is attended by various ambassadors, Governor Roemer, the Bishop of Roermond, RMWO Marco Kroon, and numerous other dignitaries.

The gathering takes on extra significance this year due to the presence of war veterans and three prominent international guest speakers. Mayor Mrs. Schmalschläger of Leudal will deliver a speech focusing on the significance of the monument and the historical connection of the region. Additionally, three ambassadors will share their perspectives on the history and significance of the monument: H.E. Chris Rampling, Ambassador of the United Kingdom, H.E. Greg French, Ambassador of Australia, and H.E. René Miko, Ambassador of the Czech Republic.

Tribute to more than 800 soldiers
During the ceremony, the more than 800 soldiers of eleven different nationalities who fell in the Leudal region during the Second World War are honored. Characteristic of this commemoration is the emphasis on tolerance: the fallen soldiers from Germany and Austria are also explicitly remembered. This underscores the core idea of the monument: bridging old enmities and building a peaceful future.

Faces of the Past
More than 300 photographs of war victims are displayed around the monument. These portraits give history a face and make the impact of the conflict poignantly palpable. They remind visitors that behind every victim lies a unique human story.

Invitation for everyone
The Military Memorial Foundation and the Municipality of Leudal cordially invite everyone to attend the commemoration. The ceremony is a moment of reflection for all generations and a timely signal for peace and tolerance.