Taiwan WWII VE Day Ceremony: Lessons in Peace and Democracy

Intermediate Level | May 11, 2025

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Marking 80 Years Since Victory in Europe

On May 8, 2025, Taiwan held its first official Taiwan WWII VE Day ceremony, honoring the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. The event took place at the historic Taipei Guest House and was led by President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May 2024.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from 17 countries and the European Union, reflecting Taiwan’s growing engagement with the global democratic community. President Lai used the occasion to reflect on the lessons of the past and call for vigilance in the face of modern authoritarian threats.

A Message of Unity and Resolve

In his speech, President Lai warned that appeasing aggressors only encourages further expansion. He drew connections between WWII and today’s global challenges, including sabotage of undersea cables, disinformation campaigns aimed at elections, and economic coercion through so-called “gray-zone” tactics.

He urged democratic nations to remain united and resolute, emphasizing that peace and freedom must be actively defended. The president also spoke of Taiwan’s ongoing role in supporting global democratic values and maintaining regional stability.

Taiwan’s Global Voice for Peace

President Lai reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to peace, not through weakness, but through strength and international cooperation. He highlighted Taiwan’s contributions to humanitarian aid, public health, and regional security. Lai’s remarks during the Taiwan WWII VE Day ceremony were a clear call for collective action among democracies facing rising global tensions.

This VE Day ceremony served as both a remembrance of history and a declaration of Taiwan’s stance in the modern world. Through this event, Taiwan sent a strong message: the fight for freedom, democracy, and peace is ongoing, and Taiwan stands ready to contribute.

Vocabulary

Commemoration (noun): A ceremony or action remembering a past event.
Example: The country held a commemoration for its war heroes.
Authoritarian (adjective): Favoring strict obedience at the expense of freedom.
Example: Authoritarian governments often limit press freedom.
Appease (verb): To try to calm someone by giving in to their demands.
Example: Appeasing a bully often makes them more aggressive.
Sabotage (verb): To intentionally damage or destroy something.
Example: The rebels tried to sabotage the train tracks.
Disinformation (noun): False information spread to deceive.
Example: The company battled disinformation about its products online.
Gray-zone tactics (noun): Actions that are aggressive but stop short of war.
Example: Cyber attacks are common gray-zone tactics.
Resolve (noun): Strong determination to do something.
Example: The team showed great resolve during the crisis.
Democratic community (noun): Countries that support democracy and freedom.
Example: Taiwan works closely with the global democratic community.
Vigilance (noun): The action of keeping careful watch.
Example: Constant vigilance is needed to protect data online.
Remembrance (noun): The act of remembering and honoring past events.
Example: A national day of remembrance was held for the victims.

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What was the purpose of Taiwan’s first VE Day ceremony?
How did President Lai connect WWII with modern challenges?
What are some “gray-zone” tactics mentioned in the article?
Why is international unity important, according to President Lai?
What message did Taiwan want to send through this event?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

Why is it important to remember historical events like WWII?
How can smaller nations contribute to global peace?
What modern threats do democracies face today?
What role does international cooperation play in maintaining peace?
How can we recognize and fight disinformation in our own lives?

Related Idiom

“Stand your ground”
Meaning: To maintain your position even when under pressure.
Example: President Lai encouraged Taiwan and its allies to stand their ground against rising threats.

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