1. Lack of Widespread Media Coverage: During the Holocaust, the Nazi regime strictly controlled the flow of information and suppressed any news about the genocide. This made it difficult for the international community to comprehend the extent of the atrocities being committed.
2. Disbelief and Denial: Many people found it hard to believe that a civilized nation like Germany could commit such atrocities. Some governments and individuals dismissed reports about the Holocaust as exaggerated or outright propaganda.
3. Antisemitism: Pre-existing antisemitic sentiments in some societies made it easier for people to downplay or ignore the suffering of Jewish victims.
4. Political Considerations: During World War II and its immediate aftermath, the primary focus of the Allied Powers was on defeating the Axis forces and rebuilding their own countries. The full revelation and comprehension of the Holocaust came later when political priorities shifted to addressing human rights and preventing future atrocities.
5. Limited Access to Survivors: In the immediate aftermath of the war, many Holocaust survivors were traumatized and reluctant to share their experiences. It took time for them to feel comfortable speaking out and sharing their stories.
6. Post-War Focus on Economic Recovery: After World War II, many countries prioritized rebuilding their economies and societies, which further delayed the comprehensive investigation and documentation of the Holocaust.
7. Cold War Politics: The Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union influenced how the Holocaust was remembered and interpreted, as both sides sought to exploit it for their own political purposes.
8. Lack of International Mechanisms: Before the Holocaust, there were no international legal frameworks or institutions that specifically addressed genocide or crimes against humanity. This meant that the international community was not well-equipped to respond to or prevent such atrocities.