Ewald Althans

During the late 1980s and early 1990s, the German (Bela) Ewald Althans was touted not only as being a leader in the next generation of Holocaust deniers, but also as a leader on Germany's far right. However, in a relatively short space of time, his fate changed markedly, and since the mid-1990s, has played no role within the Holocaust denial movement.

In 1988, Althans travelled to Toronto to witness Ernst Zundel's retrial on 'false news' charges. In the years following, he became Zundel's deputy in Germany (where Zundel himself is now unable to travel, for fear of arrest). From his office in Munich, which Althans dubbed the 'new Brown House', he coordinated Zundel's activities in Europe, and organised various functions and rallies, at which leading individuals on the far right and Holocaust deniers spoke. This included, for instance, the so-called "Leuchter Congress" in Munich in 1991, and speaking tours for David Irving.

As a consequence of his role, Althans was sought out by journalists from all over the world, whom he provided with short, offensive statements that made perfect quotes for media stories about him. The media obliged by providing him with publicity, and portrayed him as being an upcoming leader. However, many within the movement were unhappy with his tactics and rumours of his homosexuality.

Althans's downfall came largely due to a documentary, for which he agreed to be the central figure. Called "Beruf: Neonazi" ("Profession: Neo-Nazi"), by the German director Winfried Bonengel, Althans allowed himself to be filmed in Canada, Germany and Poland, whilst furthering his agenda. Most provocative - and ultimately the most condemning footage - was Althans's denial of Holocaust history whilst at the main Auschwitz camp. He was arrested in 1994, and was sentenced to 3 1/2 years' imprisonment. During the trial, Althans sought to deny his recent past, and claimed that he had worked for the Verfassungsschutz (German constitutional police) - a claim that the organisation rejected.

Althans now plays no role within the movement, having disassociated himself from it. He now promotes queer parties in Belgium.