European Day of Remembrance of Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes in Croatia

European Day of Remembrance of Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes is a significant day in Croatia, as it commemorates the victims of totalitarian and authoritarian regimes in Europe, including those who suffered under the fascist, Nazi, and communist rule. In Croatia, this day of remembrance is known as Dan sjećanja na žrtve totalitarnih i autoritarnih režima.

The European Day of Remembrance of Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes is observed annually on August 23rd. This date was chosen by the European Parliament in 2008 to coincide with the anniversary of the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1939, which led to the division of Europe between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union.

History

Croatia began observing the European Day of Remembrance of Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes in 2011, after the country's accession to the European Union. The decision to participate in this pan-European commemoration was driven by the desire to honor the memory of the victims of these regimes and to promote the values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law as a response to the atrocities of the past.

Croatia has a complex history with totalitarian and authoritarian regimes, having experienced both the Ustasha regime during World War II and the Yugoslav communist regime under Tito. The Ustasha regime was responsible for the persecution and death of many Serbs, Jews, and Roma, while the communist regime led to the suppression of political dissent and the persecution of those deemed enemies of the state.

Customs

National customs for European Day of Remembrance of Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes in Croatia

On the national level, Croatia commemorates this day with various ceremonies and events organized by the government, civil society organizations, and educational institutions. These events aim to raise awareness about the historical experiences of Croatia and other European countries under totalitarian and authoritarian regimes, as well as to promote democratic values and human rights.

One of the primary national customs is the laying of wreaths and lighting of candles at memorial sites and monuments dedicated to the victims of these regimes. High-ranking government officials, representatives of various religious communities, and families of the victims often participate in these solemn ceremonies.

Local customs for European Day of Remembrance of Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes in Croatia

Local customs for the European Day of Remembrance of Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes in Croatia vary depending on the region and the specific historical events that affected the area. In some localities, exhibitions, lectures, and discussions on the subject are organized to engage the local community in reflecting on the past and learning from it.

Some local communities also organize their own ceremonies and memorial services at local monuments and gravesites, paying tribute to those who suffered or lost their lives under totalitarian and authoritarian regimes, and fostering a sense of unity in the face of historical adversity.

Conclusion

The European Day of Remembrance of Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes is an important day in Croatia, as it offers an opportunity for the nation to honor the memory of those who suffered under various oppressive regimes, while also promoting democratic values and human rights. Through national and local customs, Croatia joins other European countries in commemorating the victims and reflecting on the lessons of history, ensuring that the dark times of the past are not forgotten, and that the values of freedom, democracy, and human rights continue to shape the future.