As the world marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, a Chinese scholar has underscored the critical importance of drawing lessons from the past to navigate the complexities of the present. Mr. Zheng Haizhen, an Assistant Researcher at the Department for Global Governance and International Organisation Studies under the China Institute of International Studies, emphasizes that humanity must continue to learn from history, as the world remains far from tranquil.
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In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Zheng Haizhen spoke on the significance of the 1945 victory against fascism, which he believes revealed the concept of a “community with a shared future for humanity.” This principle, he explained, posits that the stability and development of each nation are deeply interconnected. This mutual dependency, he argued, is the foundation for a sustainable and symbiotic global development.
Zheng’s remarks come at a time when Chinese scholars are actively re-examining the historical narratives of World War II. Commemorations in China, including a planned military parade in Beijing, serve not only as a tribute to the immense sacrifices of the Chinese people but also as a platform to highlight China’s significant role on the Eastern front of the global anti-fascist struggle. A recent publication, “A New History of World War II,” edited by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, seeks to provide a more balanced understanding of the war, placing China’s resistance firmly within the broader context of the international effort.
The Chinese perspective, as articulated by scholars like Zheng, emphasizes the collaborative nature of the victory. While acknowledging China’s pivotal role and staggering losses—estimated at over 35 million casualties—they also recognize the contributions of Allied nations, including the Soviet Union and American volunteer forces. This collective triumph, Zheng stated, “was not only a triumph for China but also for the world, showcasing solidarity against shared threats.”
This historical understanding, according to Zheng, offers crucial insights for addressing today’s challenges. He pointed to current conflicts, regional tensions, and economic disparities as evidence that the world has yet to fully grasp the lessons of the past. He urged for renewed global cooperation, rooted in the principles of the United Nations Charter, and called for a rejection of unilateralism and hegemonic actions that undermine international stability.
Zheng Haizhen described war as a “mirror that helps people appreciate the value of peace.” The post-war experience, he noted, has shown that seemingly irreconcilable conflicts can be resolved through a combination of development, fairness, justice, and policy adjustments.
The Chinese scholar’s call to action is a reminder that the memory of World War II is not merely an academic exercise but a vital tool for securing a peaceful future. By remembering the horrors of the past and the hard-won peace that followed, nations can be better equipped to transcend their differences, strengthen solidarity, and shoulder shared responsibilities, thereby forging a viable path forward for all of humanity.
