May 8 — Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation: how is it celebrated in Ukraine and Europe?

May 8 is an important date in European history, commemorating the victims of World War II. Find out how the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation is celebrated in Ukraine and other European countries, and why this day has special significance today

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May 8 is one of the key dates in the European calendar of remembrance. It was on this day in 1945 that Nazi Germany signed the act of surrender, which effectively ended World War II on the European continent. Since then, this date has become a symbol not only of victory over Nazism, but also of deep respect for the millions of people who died, suffered, and had their lives destroyed. In various countries in Europe and around the world, May 8 is celebrated as a day of remembrance, reconciliation, and peace.

Why is May 8 so special?

Although the war formally ended with the signing of the surrender document on May 8, 1945, at 11:01 p.m. Central European Time (already May 9 in Moscow), most democratic countries celebrate the anniversary on May 8. It is a day that honors not only victory but also the memory of the enormous sacrifices made by both military personnel and civilians.

The Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation has a profound moral component. It emphasizes respect for human dignity, recognition of historical truth, and the importance of preventing new tragedies in the future. In this sense, May 8 is not only about the past, but also about lessons for future generations.

How is May 8 celebrated in Ukraine?

This date has acquired special status in Ukraine. Since 2023, May 8 has officially become a public holiday — the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II. This decision is part of the country's overall course towards integration into the European space, as well as an attempt to rethink historical events without Soviet ideological pressure.

In Ukraine, this day is marked by flower-laying ceremonies, commemorative events, moments of silence, as well as themed lessons in schools and public discussions. The emphasis is not only on the military aspect of the events, but also on the humanitarian dimension of the tragedy of war.

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How is May 8 celebrated in European countries?

France

In France, May 8 is an official holiday. Solemn ceremonies are held at the state level, including the laying of wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The president of the country participates in these events every year.

Germany

Although May 8 is not a public holiday in Germany, it is considered a day of remembrance. Memorial events, lectures, exhibitions, and public discussions on the lessons of Nazism and responsibility to history are held in various regions of the country.

Italy and Austria

In both countries, May 8 is not an official holiday, but it is observed at the state level as a Day of Remembrance. Thematic events are held to honor the victims of war.

Poland, Czech Republic, and Slovakia

In these countries, May 8 is recognized as Victory Day over Nazism. It is not only a day of remembrance for the fallen, but also an important element of national memory. In Poland, in particular, this day commemorates Polish soldiers who fought in the Allied armies.

Switzerland

In Switzerland, May 8 does not have general state status, but in some cantons and cities, memorial events are held, including laying flowers, lectures, meetings with historians, and actions against forgetting.

Ukrainian context: what May 8 reminds us of today

In the context of the current war against russian aggression, May 8 has taken on additional meaning for Ukrainians. It is not only a commemoration of the past, but also a reminder of how fragile peace is. The events of World War II resonate with new force today — as a warning and a call for solidarity.

It is important to use this day not for ideological confrontation, but to unite around common values: dignity, freedom, memory, and historical truth. While remembering those who died, we must also protect the lives of current generations.

We remind you! A new exhibition at the National Museum of Folk Architecture and Life in Pirogovo is an opportunity to see and learn more about Crimean Tatar culture. The creation of the exhibition is an important step towards preserving historical memory and reviving a unique heritage that must return to Ukraine after the end of the war. Read about the interesting things the museum has prepared for its visitors in our previous article.

Photo: UNIAN, Mykhailo Markiv

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