Statement regarding the continuation of the MMT project

At this time of tribute and reflection in memory of the three days that plunged France and the whole world into mourning on 7, 8 and 9 January 2015, the Mission to prefigur the Museum & Memorial of Terrorism (MMT) extends its deepest sympathy to the victims and their loved ones. The tenth anniversary is an important, long-awaited occasion to honour the memory of the victims of Charlie Hebdo: Frédéric Boisseau, Franck Brinsolaro, Cabu, Elsa Cayat, Charb, Philippe Honoré, Bernard Maris, Mustapha Ourrad, Michel Renaud, Tignous, Georges Wolinski, Simon Fieschi, who died on 17 October 2024, and Ahmed Merabet; in memory of Clarissa Jean-Philippe; and in memory of the victims of the Hypercacher attack: Philippe Braham, Yohan Cohen, Yoav Hattab and François-Michel Saada.

For the MMT, this tribute forms part of the memorial’s broader tribute to all victims of terrorism in France over the past 50 years and to French victims abroad. The museum of history and society, which is inextricably linked to it, will trace 50 years of the history of terrorism, showcase societal reactions and give a voice to the victims. Together, these elements will enable visitors to understand how the nation was targeted during each of these tragic events through the lives of each victim.

The MMT project is indeed back on the agenda. After several weeks of campaigning and whilst its future seemed compromised following announcements made by the Prime Minister’s office on 6 December 2024, President Emmanuel Macron received Henry Rousso, the chair of the Prefiguration Mission, and Elisabeth Pelsez, its director general, on Monday 6 January. He confirmed to them that the project would go ahead in Suresnes as originally conceived, in line with his commitment.

The Prefiguration Mission extends its warmest thanks to all those who have come forward to support this project with vigour and creativity, demonstrating their deep commitment to this memorial, which, on this day of remembrance, powerfully demonstrates its raison d’être.

We will now be able to commence restoration work on the site with the Chief Architect of Historic Monuments, design the memorial in collaboration with victims’ associations, develop the permanent exhibition layout with scenographers and museologists, continue to expand the collections, and increase educational activities. This project can now be brought to fruition with confidence.

Our determination to see it through to completion is strengthened by the certainty that you will continue to contribute to this work of collective remembrance, which forms part of a coherent and comprehensive policy of remembrance for the long term.