Dutch-Paris
The Largest European Resistance Network
About
The Dutch-Paris Escape Line is a testament to courage and resilience during one of Europe’s darkest periods. Formed in Lyon, Paris and Brussels during World War II, this transnational resistance network saved over 3000 lives, smuggling Jewish families, Allied airmen, and other civilians from Nazi-occupied zones to safety in Switzerland and Spain. Dutch-Paris initially appeared as a code name used by the Allied airmen who were saved by the network. The name was adopted by its Dutch founders, Jean (John Henry) Weidner and Herman Laatsman, who created the largest transnational organisation which connected the Netherlands, Belgium and France through its operations.
It was composed of hundreds of courageous men and women from all walks of life, who risked everything to resist Nazi persecution.
The values upheld by Dutch-Paris remind us of the profound impact that grassroot collectives can achieve in the face of oppression and injustice. Their actions demonstrate that compassion, bravery, nonviolence, international cooperation and commitment to justice can prevail even in the darkest times. These values remain profoundly relevant today and can guide us in building a better future.
We invite you to learn more about this heroic network and help preserve and develop its legacy as a call to action for today and tomorrow.
Click the button below to explore the Dutch-Paris Blog by Megan Koreman.
1945-2025 Honoring the Resisters of the Dutch-Paris Escape Line in France
Transit card issued in Lyon to Perrache Crusset
Support the campaign
Spread and continue to build the story of Dutch-Paris by supporting us contact us to become a member and/or to a make a donation.
Dutch-Paris in French
Order the French translation of Koreman's book Dutch-Paris, Dutch-Paris, Le Plus Grand Réseau Européen de Résistance. translated by Elisabeth Baumé-Leijzer and published by the Parisian cultural publishing house, Les Éditions Les Trois Colonnes here.
Cover of the French edition of Megan Koreman's book
Residence of H.E. Jan Versteeg, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to France
Events
On May 5th, 2025, the French launch of Dutch-Paris took place at the residence of Jan Versteeg, Ambassador of the Netherlands in Paris.
The event marked the 80th anniversary of the Dutch-Paris escape line, with contributions from Ambassador Jan Versteeg, Minister Patricia Mirallès, author Megan Koreman, and Alain Souloumiac, President of the Dutch-Paris Association.
Benefactors
We are grateful for the support of our benefactors for the French campaign: Francois Jacquet, Isabelle Bac, Gilbert Mounier, Paul Gans, Maarten Eliasar, Jeroen Nauta, Philip Veerman.
One of the great heroes of Dutch-Paris: Maurice Jacquet, Honorary Consul of the Netherlands in Lyon