Exactly eighty years have passed since the conclusion of World War II (1939–1945), marking the defeat of Nazi Germany at the hands of the Allied forces following an arduous conflict lasting nine grueling years. This occurred less than three decades after the end of World War I (1914–1918). Since then, the 8th of May has become a national holiday across much of Europe. In recognition of these anniversary commemorations, numerous nations—including the United Kingdom—have dedicated significant portions of this week to honoring those memories through various ceremonies. Among attendees are several surviving war veterans who remain healthy enough to participate.
The toll taken during this global upheaval was immense: millions perished both on battlefields and off them, with countless individuals losing their lives behind bars due to execution orders. Historians estimate that around six million Jewish people fell victim to the atrocities committed under the auspices of the Holocaust; however, members from other marginalized communities faced similar fates. While we acknowledge that warfare inevitably involves acts deemed irrational and cruel, history shows us that these destructive undertakings often stem from ostensibly ordinary human beings making calculated decisions. Despite our collective efforts to comprehend why conflicts arise and find ways to prevent future ones, achieving permanent peace remains elusive—a challenge exceeding anyone’s individual expertise.
After World War II, ‘never again’ emerged as a rallying cry. This phrase was famously adopted by Winston Churchill, who served as the UK’s prime minister during the conflict and led the resistance movement across Europe, alongside support from the United States and numerous other nations. While some European countries like Sweden and Ireland remained unoccupied and maintained either neutral or partially neutral stances throughout much of the war, their positions shifted over time. As Nazi Germany faced increasing likelihood of defeat, even these previously neutral states increasingly aligned themselves with the Allies.
It must not be forgotten that during World War II, Russia—then known as the Soviet Union—took up arms alongside the Allied forces and endured staggering casualties with upwards of 26 million Russian deaths. At this juncture, both Russia and Ukraine stood together within one nation. It’s crucial for people in the West to acknowledge that the triumph against fascism would likely not have occurred without the immense contributions and sacrifices made by the Soviet Union. Reflecting back now, we might well ask whether the Soviet Union received fair treatment post-war; after all, it was primarily Western Europe and America that established the conditions and perspectives shaping subsequent peace agreements and future directions. This pattern is common at war’s end: victors dictate how peace will look and what narratives prevail, leading former adversaries and allies alike to adapt to these new realities.
The compelling motto of ‘Never again’ resonates deeply with countless individuals as an emblem marking the conclusion of World War II. This phrase has been rendered into various languages around the world. It embodies a firm commitment to prevent history from repeating horrific deeds and ideologies, notably those associated with the Holocaust. Post-World War II, this sentiment was echoed following several heinous crimes against humanity and wars. Interestingly, it was employed even prior to the conflict, such as by Jewish people during the 1870s.
Even though this phrase is potent and evokes memories specifically from the conclusion of World War II, prompting reflection through both intellect and emotion, eighty years onward, amidst numerous ongoing conflicts, we must reassess the depth of our dedication to “never again.” Reflecting retrospectively, one realizes that much went awry towards the close of World War II—including the handling of the Soviet Union—which subsequently impacted other Eastern European nations adversely. Post-war reconstruction positioned the U.S.A., alongside Western Europe, atop the hierarchy of global leaders, leaving developing states—often former colonies or territories dominated by key European powers—at a disadvantage without representation in constructing institutions like the UN, World Bank, IMF, among others—all operating predominantly within Western oversight. This arrangement persisted throughout the duration of the Cold War until 1989-91, wherein the USSR assumed the mantle of rival superpower against the US.
In review, egregious injustices occurred across various regions during these transitional periods following conflict resolutions. If those early efforts toward establishing postwar order had embraced greater realism and democracy in their principles and practices, contemporary issues dividing east from west might be less pronounced now. With the dissolution of the Soviet bloc leading up to Russian resurgence, coupled with newfound autonomy enjoyed by erstwhile satellites, an unprecedented moment emerged where deeper scrutiny into inter-state dynamics and hierarchies became possible. Unfortunately, prevailing attitudes seemed overly optimistic regarding outcomes and trajectories; perhaps certain interests even benefited opportunistically amid geopolitical shifts. Today’s Russo-Ukrainian confrontation partly stems from past missteps along with subsequent errors committed by western entities such as NATO.
The devastating American involvement in the Vietnam War (1955-1975), spanning two decades, resulted in staggering losses of life and limb among both combatants and non-combatants—primarily Vietnamese citizens as well as U.S. service members. This conflict stands out not only for its brutality but also because numerous Americans opposed it then and recall it now, contributing to a cautious approach toward future military engagements. As we mark 50 years since the end of the war, our sentiment echoes ‘never again.’ Today, Vietnam has shown remarkable resilience; economically and infrastructurally, the nation appears to have rebounded effectively from wartime devastation. Additionally, they seem to be overcoming the profound emotional and societal scars left behind. While this recovery might appear miraculous, it underscores an unexplainable human capacity within individuals and their communities to harness internal strength and communal support to forge forward.
Nevertheless, even as we assert “Never again,” significant progress remains essential for Europe, America, and beyond to genuinely focus on defending against war and managing post-war challenges. Numerous peace organizations worldwide, both regional and international entities like the United Nations, face substantial responsibilities ahead. Locally, within Pakistan and India, it’s disheartening that discussions haven’t delved deeply enough into these matters over time, preventing the escalation seen today. Yet, ideally, all leaders should strive relentlessly to address present concerns and larger questions regarding enduring peaceful coexistence. This imperative falls upon everyone globally—to enhance efforts and outcomes in averting warfare and disputes—so that the pledge “Never again” holds universally true.
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