On 23 June 2026, Professor Dr Christoph Safferling, Director of the Nuremberg Academy, gave a presentation in Courtroom 600 of the Nuremberg Palace of Justice as part of the accompanying programme to the special exhibition “Der Volksgerichtshof 1934–1945. Terror durch ‘Recht’” (The People’s Court 1934–1945. Terror through 'Law').
Developed by the Foundation Topography of Terror and on display until 27 September 2026 in Cube 600 of the Memorium Nuremberg Trials, the exhibition examines the Volksgerichtshof (“People's Court”), one of the National Socialist regime’s principal instruments of political persecution and illustrates how the judicial system was transformed into a mechanism of terror.
In his presentation, Professor Safferling reflected on the instrumentalisation of the judiciary under National Socialism and the devastating consequences of subordinating law to political power. Speaking at the historic site of the Nuremberg Trials, he highlighted the enduring importance of judicial independence and the rule of law, underscoring the continued relevance of these lessons for safeguarding justice, protecting democratic institutions and preventing future atrocities. (pg)