On the occasion of Franco-German Day (January 22), the Internationaler Bund (IB) is advocating for a posthumous recognition of Henri Humblot. The French officer and educator, who passed away in 1996, was one of the co-founders of the IB in 1949. He believed that peace could not exist without Germany integrating into a peaceful Europe. Franco-German Day commemorates the signing of the friendship treaty between the two countries on January 22, 1963.
Humblot also promoted Civic Education among German youth. His vision was for young people to take on responsibility, enabling them to become multipliers of democracy. His approach encouraged them to embrace other cultures and countries, particularly through international encounters—a concept that was both visionary and courageous for its time.
Mr.Henri Humblot’s Daughters and the French League for Human Rights Support the Internationaler Bund's Initiative
To this day, the IB organizes international youth exchanges. From the very beginning, the organization has maintained a special connection with France. For decades, the IB has also been a part of the Franco-German Youth Office (DFJW).
“The IB owes a great debt of gratitude to Henri Humblot. Our president, Mrs. Petra Merkel, and I are committed on honoring him for his democratic and European contributions. In September 2024, the IB visited his daughters in France, who fully support the initiative. We are currently working with local authorities to determine how a lasting public recognition can be established,” said Mr.Thiemo Fojkar, Chairman of the IB Board. The French League for Human Rights, where Mr.Henri Humblot served as treasurer, also supports the initiative.