May 8, 9: Time of remembrance and reconciliation for those who lost their lives during World War II

CAIRO – 8 May 2022: The General Assembly, by its resolution 59/26 of November 22, 2004, declared May 8 and 9 a time of remembrance and reconciliation, while recognizing that each of the Member States can designate for itself days in which it celebrates the anniversary of victory and liberation, inviting all Member States, organizations of the United Nations system, non-governmental organizations and individuals to observe annually one or both of these days in an appropriate manner, in honor of the memory of all the victims of the Second World War.

The General Assembly emphasized that this historic event had created the conditions for the establishment of the United Nations, which was intended to save future generations from the scourge of war.

The General Assembly called upon the Member States of the United Nations to unite their efforts in the face of new challenges and threats, with the United Nations playing a pivotal role in this, and to make all efforts to settle the states' disputes by peaceful means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, and in a manner that does not threaten international peace and security.

Basic information:

On March 2, 2010, the General Assembly, by its resolution 64/257, indicated that 2010 marked the 65th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. It therefore called upon all Member States, organizations of the United Nations system, non-governmental organizations and individuals to observe these days in an appropriate manner in honor of the memory of all the victims of the Second World War.

It also requested the President of the General Assembly to convene an extraordinary formal session of the General Assembly in the second week of May 2010 in commemoration of all the victims of the war.

In resolution 69/267, the General Assembly noted that World War II "brought untold sorrows to mankind, particularly in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Pacific and other parts of the world."

It stressed the progress made since the end of World War II in overcoming its legacy and promoting reconciliation, international and regional cooperation, democratic values, human rights and fundamental freedoms in particular through the United Nations, and the establishment of regional and sub-regional organizations and other appropriate frameworks.

A special solemn meeting was held on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Second World War on May 5.