World Commemorates Victims of World War II

Kathmandu. Memorial Day for victims of World War II is being observed today and tomorrow in various countries around the world.

As per the resolution passed by the United Nations General Assembly on November 22, 2004, May 8 and 9 are observed annually as days of remembrance and reconciliation for all victims of World War II.

Through the said resolution, member states, bodies under the UN system, non-governmental organizations, and individuals were called upon to observe these days in an appropriate manner and pay homage to the victims of the war.

The General Assembly mentioned that the horrific event of World War II laid the foundation for the establishment of the United Nations with the objective of saving future generations from the horrors of war. It also urged member states to make united efforts to strengthen international peace and security by resolving disputes through peaceful means in accordance with the UN Charter.

On March 2, 2010, the General Assembly passed another resolution urging member states and relevant bodies to appropriately observe May 8-9 in honor of all victims of World War II. A special memorial service was also organized by the General Assembly in the second week of May 2010 on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II.

On that occasion, the then Secretary-General described World War II as "the greatest struggle for freedom and liberation in history," stating that approximately 40 million civilians and 20 million soldiers died in that war. Nearly half of them were soldiers from the Soviet Union.

The General Assembly noted that World War II caused irreparable suffering to humanity, especially in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Pacific region, and other parts of the world, and mentioned the progress made in reconciliation, international and regional cooperation, democratic values, human rights, and fundamental freedoms after the war as achievements.

On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the General Assembly organized a special memorial service on May 7 last year.