The Riegner Telegram, sent on August 8, 1942, remains the first official communication detailing the systematic extermination plan for millions of individuals in occupied or controlled territories. This urgent dispatch, transmitted through diplomatic channels to Stephen Samuel Wise, originated from Gerhart M. Riegner while he was based in Geneva during the height of the global conflict.
Early Education and Legal Training
Born in Berlin in 1911, Riegner pursued an extensive academic path across Europe. His formal studies included time at the University of Fribourg, the Paris Law Faculty, Heidelberg University, and the Graduate Institute of International Studies. These diverse educational environments provided him with a foundation in law and theology, disciplines that would inform his subsequent professional career as a jurist and legal counselor.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Service at the World Jewish Congress
Riegner maintained a significant professional presence within the World Jewish Congress, eventually serving as its secretary-general from 1965 until 1983. During this tenure, he focused on the intersection of human rights advocacy and international law. His contributions to the organization were documented in his autobiographical work, Never Despair: Sixty Years in the Service of the Jewish People and the Cause of Human Rights.
Recognitions and Final Years
Throughout his life, Riegner was the recipient of several international honors reflecting his commitment to humanitarian and public service. These included the Four Freedoms Award for Freedom of Worship, the Star of People's Friendship, the Knight of the Order of St. Gregory the Great, and the Knight of the Legion of Honour. In 2001, he was granted an honorary doctorate from the University of Lucerne. He died later that year in Geneva at the age of 90 and was buried at the Jewish cemetery of Veyrier.
Fast facts
- Born: 1911, Berlin
- Died: 2001, Geneva
- Citizenships: Switzerland, France, Germany
- Primary Occupation: Secretary-general, World Jewish Congress (1965-1983)
- Notable Work: Never Despair: Sixty Years in the Service of the Jewish People and the Cause of Human Rights
- Burial Site: Jewish cemetery of Veyrier
Questions readers ask
What was the Riegner Telegram?
It was an urgent message sent on August 8, 1942, reporting on plans to exterminate millions in German-occupied regions.
Where did Gerhart M. Riegner study?
He attended the University of Fribourg, the Paris Law Faculty, Heidelberg University, and the Graduate Institute of International Studies.
Achievements
- Knight of the Order of St. Gregory the Great
- Knight of the Legion of Honour
- Notable work: Never Despair: Sixty Years in the Service of the Jewish People and the Cause of Human Rights
- Held posts at World Jewish Congress
