Holocaust education has a growing Gen AI problem

Generative AI (Gen AI) has recently infiltrated education with significant disruption, particularly affecting Holocaust education.
UNESCO warns in a 2024 report that AI could fabricate realistic images or videos that cast doubt on the Holocaust, fueling greater antisemitism.
The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Museum opposes AI-generated fictional images of Auschwitz victims, viewing it as disrespectful to historical truth.
There is a dual approach to Gen AI usage in Holocaust education: beneficial in some contexts, but potentially harmful in others, e.g., Joe Berlinger’s documentary versus spread of misinformation.
The Canadian Museum for Human Rights utilizes AI-driven avatars for Holocaust survivors, indicative of an embrace of Gen AI in some educational settings, despite related misuse concerns.
Misinformation and misinterpretation are rampant through social media, where Gen AI content often blends into the fabric of historical narratives.
Gen AI in Holocaust representation on platforms like YouTube can easily lead to viewers misinterpreting historical authenticity and severity.
There is an opportunity to use Gen AI constructively to engage students in educating against Holocaust revisionism, distortion, and denial.