A 103-year-old Holocaust Survivor, Margot Friedlaënder: A Legendary Spirit and Lifelong Advocate
Centenarian Holocaust survivor, Friedländer, honored with the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit - Venerable Holocaust survivor Friedländer granted Grand Cross of Merit award
Margot Friedlaënder, a powerhouse Holocaust survivor, continued her fierce dedication to historical remembrance and antisemitism combat until her very last breath, passing away on May 10, 2025, at an astonishing 103 years old. Born in Berlin, she emigrated to the USA following World War II but returned to her birthplace later in life, where she stood as an inspiring beacon of resilience.
In 2010, Friedlaënder, at 88 years young, made the momentous decision to permanently move back to her hometown. She debuted her autobiography and gained recognition, returning to Berlin with a mission to educate and enlighten future generations. The city was not only her birthplace but also the battleground of her past, and it became a testament to her strength and spirit.
Friedlaënder's involvement in various activities ranged from educating the youth at schools and universities to speaking at public events, sharing her heart-wrenching experiences so that the atrocities of WWII would never be forgotten. She was not only a voice for the voiceless but also a powerful advocate against antisemitism, encouraging peaceful coexistence and unity.
Her efforts were widely recognized and respected by the country's leaders, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who admired her courage and commitment to memory and humanity. Friedlaënder had previously received lower orders of the Order of Merit in 2011 and 2023, a tribute to her invaluable contributions to society.
Although Friedlaënder left a void in the hearts of many when she passed away, her spirit lives on through her foundation, the Margot Friedlaënder Foundation. Created to continue promoting the causes that were dear to her heart, the foundation offers a €25,000 prize to recognize efforts against antisemitism and to promote democracy.
Even in her final years, Friedlaënder remained active and impactful. She was a regular presence at public events, including Berlin's commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. Her words served as a reminder of the past, a beacon of hope for the future, and a call for unity in the present.
Friedlaënder's legacy will forever mark the history of German society. Her unwavering determination to combat antisemitism, promote historical awareness, and ensure that the horrors of the past are never forgotten will continue to inspire future generations.
- Margot Friedlaënder
- Frank-Walter Steinmeier
- Berlin
- Order of Merit
- World War II
- USA
- Margot Friedlaënder Foundation
- Friedrich Merz
- Antisemitism
- Historical Remembrance
Margot Friedlaënder, despite passing away in 2025 at the age of 103, continues to influence the German political landscape and society through her Margot Friedlaënder Foundation. In 2023, she was awarded the Grand Cross of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, the highest tier of the Order of Merit, by President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.
Margot, a Holocaust survivor who emigrated to the United States following World War II, made Berlin her home again in 2010. Her relentless efforts to educate the youth about the atrocities of WWII, combat antisemitism, and promote historical remembrance continued even in her final years.
Though Margot Friedlaënder is no longer with us, her legacy remains strong in Berlin and beyond. Her work, including her autobiography and her foundation, serve as testaments to her unwavering commitment to memory and humanity.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier and other government leaders, including Friedrich Merz, acknowledge and appreciate Margot's significant contributions to German society. Her life and work serve as a reminder of the importance of historical awareness, resilience, and the fight against hatred and discrimination.
