Léon Jouhaux, Itter, 43-45

Itter Castle, a place of detention for a number of prominent figures, diplomats and French officers during the Second World War, was liberated on 5 May 1945. Among them was Léon Jouhaux, French trade unionist and Nobel Peace Prize winner… Léon fought for social justice, human dignity and peace during a very dark period of the 20th century when these fundamental values were being trampled upon. His tireless struggle earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1951.

However, although his contribution to social progress and greater equality between human beings was significant, his name and his actions have largely been forgotten. Eighty years after the liberation of the prisoners of Itter Castle and the end of the war, it is worth recalling the words of a man of conviction, who was passionate about peace and social justice.