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13.01.2021

The Office of Search and Identification: its mission and work

The Office head Krzysztof Szwagrzyk says, "These are not ordinary archaelogical works, . . . which are only aimed at finding remains and identifying persons; this is a matter of national importance . . . because this is the way the Polish state, but also we as citizens . . . do our utmost best to preserve the memory of our heroes."

The Office of Search and Identification: the booklet cover

The 20th century marks a period during which Poland  suffered  extraordinary  losses.  Wars, crimes  of  totalitarian  regimes  and  ethnic cleansing cost the lives of over 6 million of its citizens. The remains of the victims were often hidden in unknown locations, hindering families from ensuring their loved ones a dignified burial. The murdered were to be deprived of graves and erased from memory forever. Today, we are restoring that memory.

The Office of Search and Identification

  • carries out research,
  • locates places of burial,
  • restores identity to victims,
  • honours heroes.

Learn more about the Office mission and work from this downloadable, three-language booklet:

 


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